James W Middleton1, Grace Leong, Linda Mann. 1. Statewide Spinal Cord Injury Service, Rehabilitation Studies Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Sydney, New South Wales. j.middleton@usyd.edu.au
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex disability, often requiring specialised knowledge and expertise to manage multisystem impairments. This topic is often not included in undergraduate medical education and the general practitioner may understandably feel underprepared for managing a patient with SCI. OBJECTIVE: This two part article provides an overview of common complications associated with SCI. DISCUSSION: Common management issues in SCI include neurogenic bladder and bowel dysfunction, autonomic dysreflexia, sexuality, fertility, pressure areas, pain, spasticity, musculoskeletal disorders, neurological complications, general health and psychological wellbeing. Armed with key information, management of the patient with SCI can be systematically addressed in the general practice setting.
BACKGROUND:Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex disability, often requiring specialised knowledge and expertise to manage multisystem impairments. This topic is often not included in undergraduate medical education and the general practitioner may understandably feel underprepared for managing a patient with SCI. OBJECTIVE: This two part article provides an overview of common complications associated with SCI. DISCUSSION: Common management issues in SCI include neurogenic bladder and bowel dysfunction, autonomic dysreflexia, sexuality, fertility, pressure areas, pain, spasticity, musculoskeletal disorders, neurological complications, general health and psychological wellbeing. Armed with key information, management of the patient with SCI can be systematically addressed in the general practice setting.
Authors: Mary Ann McColl; Alice Aiken; Karen Smith; Alexander McColl; Michael Green; Marshall Godwin; Richard Birtwhistle; Kathleen Norman; Gabrielle Brankston; Michael Schaub Journal: Can Fam Physician Date: 2015-05 Impact factor: 3.275