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Studies Show Speedy Surgery Lessens Chance of Permanent Injury Key findings also show that a patient is twice as likely to experience a "major neurological recovery" when they have surgery within a day of their injury. . Recovery is measured by the internationally recognized American Spinal Injury Assessment Scale. Scores range from letters A to E. Those with an A have no motor or sensory function below the level of injury and those with an E have normal function. A major improvement is defined by a jump of two or more grades. "The differences that we are seeing with early decompression surgery are very significant and the results have a major impact on a person's life," said lead author and neurosurgeon Dr. Michael Fehlings. The importance of a quick surgery is to ease pressure on the injured spinal cord, doctors say. The report was spurred by concerns that early decompression surgery on patients suffering spinal injuries could cause complications later on. The traditional wisdom among some practitioners was to avoid too much surgery too soon. But with improved technology like MRIs, better surgical tools and refined techniques, the study's authors say that a "new standard of care for patients" is on the horizon. "Since timing is such an important factor for treating spinal cord injuries, we need to ensure that patients can get timely access to neurosurgical care," said Fehlings. Some 313 patients from six hospitals in North America participated in the clinical trial, including the Krembil Neuroscience Centre at Toronto Western where Fehlings is medical director. Fehlings emphasized the results apply only to those with injuries to the cervical spine, which starts at the base of the neck. Article courtesy of CTV Calgary and the Toronto Star. |
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