Early predictors of functional independence 2 years after spinal cord injury.

Objective: To determine: (1) how well factors measured at admission to an acute care facility predict functional independence measure (FIM) scores, use of personal care assistance, and wheelchair ownership 2 years after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI); (2) the extent that factors measured during inpatient stay add to these predictions; and (3) if FIM scores differ through use of assistance and wheelchair ownership 2 years after SCI.

Design: Prospective, longitudinal.

Setting: Tertiary care acute, rehabilitation hospitals and home settings.

Factors predicting employment 1 year after traumatic spine fracture.

Study Design: This prospective cohort study evaluates the employment status of 489 persons after traumatic spine fracture.

Objectives: To determine the rate, type, and predictors of employment 1 year after traumatic spine fracture.

Summary Of Background Data: The limited existing literature regarding employment after spine fracture reports variable return-to-work rates, tends to be retrospective, and generally evaluates a limited number of predictor factors at a time.

Incomplete neural deficits in thoracolumbar and lumbar spine fractures. Reliability of Frankel and Sunnybrook scales.

Because neural status is used both as a treatment determiner and outcome measure, a universal, reliable scale is required. Experienced personnel, provided with concise definitions, demonstrated high inter-rater reliability of Frankel and Sunnybrook scales (Pearson correlation coefficients 0.71-0.

A survey of vertebral burst-fracture management in Canada.

In the management of burst fractures, the role of direct surgical removal of retropulsed bony fragments encroaching upon the spinal canal (direct decompression) is controversial. A questionnaire was mailed to 65 neurosurgeons and 36 orthopedic surgeons across Canada to determine the current management of vertebral burst fractures and the willingness of these surgeons to participate in a longitudinal study of the effects of direct surgical decompression in the management of burst fractures. Sixty-nine (44 neurologic and 25 orthopedic) surgeons responded to the questionnaire.

Multiple noncontiguous spine fractures.

The data from a prospective study of 508 spine injuries were reviewed to determine the incidence of multiple noncontiguous spine fractures. All patients were examined at admission and at 1 and 2 years postinjury. This series identified 77 (15.