University of Miami Neuro-Spinal Index (UMNI): a quantitative method for determining spinal cord function

At the University of Miami we have developed a quantitative scale for assessing spinal cord function and have utilised this scale in evaluating acute spinal cord injury patients over the last year. The assessments are performed by specially trained physical therapists who see the patients within an hour of their arrival at the hospital emergency room. The University of Miami Neuro-Spinal Index (UMNI) utilises standard methods of spinal cord functional assessment to produce a numerical value which can be used to determine change in a patient's status, even when the change is minimal. The UMNI yields both a sensory and motor scale which can be dealt with individually or in combination. This scale permits one to compare across patients, quantitative changes in status regardless of the initial of injury. The UMNI is sensitive to small changes. We are in the process of determining the UMNI's potential as a predictor of outcome.