Neurophysiological, histological, and behavioral characterization of animal models of distraction spinal cord injury: a systematic review

Distraction spinal cord injury (DSCI) occurs when the spinal cord is stretched, often during surgery to correct spinal deformities. This review examines existing research on DSCI in animal models to better understand the injury's characteristics. The review analyzes 22 studies, focusing on how DSCI affects the nervous system, tissue structure, and behavior in animals. It also explores the underlying mechanisms of both the initial injury and subsequent damage. By summarizing these findings, the study aims to provide new insights for creating DSCI models and to offer guidance for diagnosing and treating this condition in clinical settings.

• 1
  DSCI severity, assessed through neurophysiology, histology, and behavior, increases with the degree and duration of distraction, highlighting the importance of these factors in injury progression.
• 2
  DSCIs result in the greatest rostral-to-caudal extension when compared to that generated by dislocation and contusion DSCIs.
• 3
  The study identifies oxidative stress, immune-inflammatory responses, and apoptosis as key mechanisms underlying secondary injuries associated with DSCI, offering potential targets for therapeutic intervention.