An exploration of spinal care injury treatment : opportunities to improve functional recovery and independence for patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries

Abstract

A spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe life-changing event, and usually results in significant complications and loss of function. The severity and complexity of these injuries make them difficult to treat. This thesis seeks to identify the most significant opportunities for improving SCI treatment. It explores the different elements of SCI care within the ICU, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient rehabilitation settings from the perspective of the patient and the associated stakeholders. Through this exploration, this paper uncovers a comprehensive list of potential opportunities. This paper down-selected from that list to three high-potential opportunities based on the amount of benefit potential solutions could deliver. These were determined to be motor strengthening, ambulation recovery, and neurogenic bowel dysfunction. Each high-potential opportunity was assessed based on how well existing, emerging, and future solutions meet SCI patients' needs. It was concluded that a wireless closed-loop neuromuscular electrical stimulation solution should be further investigated to improve patients' quality of life.