Predictors of Early Mortality After Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury in South Africa.

Study Design: Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives: To identify predictors for early mortality following traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI), as recognition of factors associated with early mortality is essential for public resource allocation and optimized acute care.

Methods: Retrospective Analysis of SCI patients admitted to the acute SCI ward from 2003 to 2022 was performed.

Civilian ballistic spinal cord injuries versus blunt trauma: comparative analysis of clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes.

Background Context: There are no current guidelines for the management of civilian gunshot wound injuries (GSW) to the spine and patient management often relies on algorithms derived from blunt trauma (BT). However, spinal cord injury due to GSW or blunt trauma mechanism may have significantly different clinical presentation, management, and outcomes. To ensure improved and evidence-based treatment, we need to understand the outcome determining characteristics of civilian GSW to the spine and identify the differences to the well-studied BT.

Does the Level and Complexity of Femur Fracture Determine Intramedullary Peak Pressures During Reamed Femoral Nailing? A Prospective Study.

Objectives: To investigate femoral intramedullary (IM) pressures during reamed antegrade nailing and to determine whether fracture level and/or complexity affect peak pressures.

Design: Prospective, nonrandomized observational cohort.

Setting: Single level I trauma center.