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[Spinal cord injuries caused by suicide attempts]
F Biering-Sørensen1, W Pedersen, P G Müller
1Afdeling TH (Fysiurgisk Hospital), Rigshospitalet, København.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|September 13, 1993
Summary
Spinal cord injuries from suicide attempts increased significantly between 1965-1987. Many patients had prior psychiatric issues and continued to struggle with mental health post-injury.
Area of Science:
- Traumatology
- Psychiatry
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Context:
- Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a significant health burden.
- Suicide attempts are a known, though understudied, cause of traumatic SCI.
- Understanding the characteristics and outcomes of SCI due to suicide attempts is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose:
- To analyze the trends and patient characteristics of spinal cord injuries resulting from suicide attempts.
- To evaluate the long-term outcomes, including mortality and mental health status, of individuals with SCI due to suicide attempts.
Summary:
- This study examined 45 patients with SCI from suicide attempts admitted between 1965-1987.
- The proportion of traumatic SCI due to suicide attempts rose from 3.5% to 13% during the study period.
- Jumps from buildings were the primary cause (84%), with patients often experiencing unemployment, social isolation, and prior psychiatric history.
- Follow-up revealed significant mortality (11 deaths, 3 from suicide) and ongoing mental health challenges, including suicide attempts and psychiatric admissions.
Impact:
- Highlights a concerning increase in SCI due to suicide attempts.
- Underscores the complex interplay between mental health, social factors, and severe physical trauma.
- Informs the need for specialized psychiatric and rehabilitative care for this vulnerable population.