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A Novel Vertebral Stabilization Method for Producing Contusive Spinal Cord Injury
Published on: January 5, 2015
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Associated Injuries in Patients with Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury.
Manuel F Mas1, José Quintana1, Anna Blanco2
1Department of Physical Medicine, Rehabilitation, and Sports Medicine, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine.
Puerto Rico Health Sciences Journal
|September 30, 2025
Summary
Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) patients frequently have multiple associated injuries, often complicating care. A clear definition of these injuries is needed for better rehabilitation outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Traumatology
- Neurosurgery
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) management requires understanding all co-occurring injuries.
- Associated injuries significantly impact patient care and recovery trajectories.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the types and frequency of injuries associated with TSCI.
- To identify injuries that may complicate rehabilitation in TSCI patients.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional review of the Puerto Rico Trauma Hospital Registry (2019-2022).
- Analysis of International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification codes (S12-S14, S22-S24, S32-S34).
- Inclusion of injury characteristics: neurological level, mechanism, severity, length of stay, and associated injuries.
Main Results:
- The median number of associated injuries per TSCI patient was 5; 93.8% had multiple injuries.
- Common injuries included rib, sternum, thoracic/cervical/lumbar spine fractures, intrathoracic organ damage, and pelvic fractures.
- 88.3% had injuries complicating rehabilitation, including upper extremity fractures (33.3%) and traumatic brain injury (20%).
Conclusions:
- Associated injuries are common in TSCI and can complicate acute care and outcomes.
- A consensus definition for TSCI-associated injuries, especially those impacting rehabilitation, is crucial.
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