SCI Epidemiology

Question 1

Injury to Thoracic, Lumbar, or Sacral SC results in

Answer 1

Paraplegia or Paraparesis

Question 2

Plegia vs paresis

Answer 2

Plegia = paralysis

Paresis = partial paralysis

Question 3

Injury to Cervical SC leads to

Answer 3

Tetraplegia or Tetraparesis

Results in weakness to arms, legs, torso, and neck

Question 4

Mortality Rates for those who sustain a SCI

Answer 4

It is highest within the first yr after injury

Mortality rates increase as the population ages

Question 5

Most Common Causes of Death d/t a SCI are

Answer 5

1. Respiratory Diseases (particularly Pneumonia)
2. Infective and Parasitic Disease (predominantly Sepsis)
3. Diseases of Pulmonary Circulation (many are Pulmonary Embolus)
   * #1 cause used to be Renal Failure