Article

Patients with both a spinal cord injury (SCI) and traumatic brain injury (TBI)
are often very difficult to manage and can strain the resources of clinical units
specialized in treating either diagnosis. However, a wide range of estimates
exists on the extent of this problem. The aim of this study was to describe the
scope of the problem in a well-defined population attending a comprehensive SCI
unit. Electronic medical records of all patients with SCI being followed by the
SCI unit in a U.S. Veterans' hospital were searched to identify those with
concurrent TBI. The data were analyzed for age, sex, cause of injury, level and
completeness of SCI, cognitive impairment, relationship with Active Duty
military, and date of injury. Of 409 Veterans with a traumatic SCI, 99 (24.2%)
were identified as having had a concurrent TBI. The occurrence did not appear to
be closely related to military conflict. Reports of TBI were much more common in
the last 20 yr than in previous decades. Documentation of TBI in patients with
SCI was inconsistent. Improved screening and documentation could identify all
patients with this dual diagnosis and facilitate appropriate management.

Langue : ANGLAIS