SPINAL-CORD INJURY OUTCOMES IN A POPULATION-BASED SAMPLE

Outcomes and follow-up data from a population-based sample of 358 persons with spinal cord injuries are described. The case fatality rate during hospitalization was less than 4%. Among those who survived, over half exhibited neurologic preservation below the level of vertebral injury at onset. Twenty-four percent of those with thoracolumbar injuries and 36% with cervical injuries experienced additional later neurologic recovery. Ninety-five percent of all survivors were discharged home, and at 2 years post-injury, 48% reported no significant medical or psychosocial problems. Of a subgroup, surveyed, 63% rated their adjustment and 60% rated their quality of life as good or excellent. Overall, the favorable outcome findings of this study support a relatively positive outlook following traumatic spinal cord injury.