Quality of Life and Activities of Daily Living among Patients with Complete Cervical Spinal Cord Injury and Surgical Treatment in Vietnam

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2021 · DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189703 · Published: September 15, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study focuses on individuals in Vietnam with complete cervical spinal cord injuries who have undergone surgery. It aims to understand their health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and how well they can perform daily activities. The study used questionnaires to assess HRQoL, basic activities like eating and dressing (ADL), and more complex activities like managing finances (IADL). The researchers then looked at factors that might affect these measures. The findings showed that the severity of the spinal cord injury significantly impacts HRQoL and the ability to perform daily tasks. Factors like health insurance, occupation, and the type of injury also play a role.

Study Duration

June 2018 to June 2019

Participants

88 adults in Vietnam

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Participants with the most severe spinal cord injuries (ASIA-A) had the lowest scores for activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).
2
Health insurance coverage, occupation, type of fracture, and IADL significantly affected HRQoL and ADL scores among the participants.
3
Living areas and the severity of the spinal cord injury (ASIA) were significantly associated with the ability to perform instrumental activities of daily living (IADL).

Research Summary

This study investigated the quality of life (HRQoL) and activities of daily living (ADL) among patients with complete cervical spinal cord injury who had undergone surgical treatment in Vietnam. The study found that patients with more severe spinal cord injuries had lower HRQoL and ADL scores. Factors such as health insurance, occupation, and living area were also found to be associated with HRQoL and ADL. The authors conclude that attention should be given to disability-related outcomes during clinical treatment and that these outcomes should be treated effectively in the recovery process.

Practical Implications

Improve Rehabilitation Strategies

Tailor rehabilitation programs to address the specific needs of SCI patients, considering factors such as the severity of the injury, occupation, and living environment.

Address Socioeconomic Disparities

Provide targeted support for unemployed patients and those living in rural areas to improve their access to healthcare and enhance their quality of life.

Enhance Pain Management

Implement effective pain management strategies during clinical treatment to improve patients' psychological well-being and long-term outcomes.

Study Limitations

1
Cross-sectional study design limits the ability to assess changes over time.
2
Convenience sampling may restrict the generalizability of the results.
3
Self-reporting of health status may be affected by social desirability and recall bias.

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