Adults with pediatric-onset spinal cord injuries: part 3: impact of medical complications

Abstract

Objective: To determine the impact of medical complications on adult outcomes of individuals with pediatric-onset spinal cord injury (SCI).

Method: Structured interview including standardized measures.

Participants: Individuals who sustained SCI at age 18 years or younger and were 24 years of age or older at interview.

Outcome measures: A structured interview covering employment, independent living and driving, and marriage. Standardized measures include the Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Technique (CHART), the Short Form (SF-12), and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS).

Results: Two hundred sixteen individuals were interviewed, with a mean age at injury of 14 years and a mean age at follow-up of 29 years. Of all the complications, pressure ulcers, severe urinary tract infection (UTI), and spasticity had the greatest impact on adult outcomes. Pressure ulcers were statistically related to all main outcomes. Severe UTI was statistically associated with all the outcomes except for marriage. Spasticity was associated with all the measured outcomes, except for marriage and life satisfaction. Life satisfaction was most significantly associated with severe UTI, pressure ulcers, pain, and respiratory complications.

Conclusion: Medical complications significantly affect adult outcomes of individuals with pediatric-onset SCI.