Epidemiology of traumatic spinal cord injury: a large population-based study

Spinal Cord, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41393-022-00795-w · Published: April 8, 2022

Simple Explanation

Traumatic spinal cord injuries (TSCI) are a global health priority with considerable impact in terms of mortality and morbidity, representing a relevant burden for healthcare systems. This study examines the incidence rates and trends of TSCI and the factors most strongly associated with short- and long-term mortality using data from Veneto Region, Italy. The study found that TSCI incidence remained stable over the decade, with higher rates among males and older individuals, and that mortality rates were greater for cervical lesions and increased with age.

Study Duration

10 years

Participants

1303 patients with incident TSCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Age-sex-standardized TSCI incidence rate was 26.5 (95% CI, 25.0–27.9) per 1,000,000 inhabitants.
2
Most TSCIs were cervical lesions (52.1%), and the most common cause of injury were trafﬁc crashes (29.9%) followed by occupational accidents (29.8%).
3
Mortality rates were greater for cervical lesions, and increased with age, remaining stably high among older individuals even 12 months after the accident.

Research Summary

This retrospective population-based study examined the epidemiology of traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) in Veneto Region, Italy, between 2011 and 2020, identifying 1303 incident cases. The study found stable TSCI incidence rates, with higher rates among males and older individuals, and identified traffic crashes and occupational accidents as the most common causes. Mortality rates were higher for cervical lesions and increased with age, highlighting the need for public health policies focused on prevention and long-term management of elderly patients.

Practical Implications

Public Health Policies

Targeted prevention policies should be implemented to reduce preventable TSCIs, such as those related to occupational accidents and traffic crashes.

Geriatric Care

Special attention should be drawn to the long-term management of elderly patients with TSCI to decrease mortality rates.

Trauma Network Support

Promoting and maintaining effective trauma networks is crucial for managing TSCI patients and optimizing healthcare resource allocation.

Study Limitations

1
Absence of a clinical assessment of the severity of the spinal cord injury.
2
Follow-up for mortality was set at 12 months; assessment of longer-term mortality could be warranted.
3
Stratification for the cause of death was not performed due to low numbers.

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