Advances and Challenges in Spinal Cord Injury Treatments

Abstract

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating condition that is associated with long-term physical and functional disability. Our understanding of the pathogenesis of SCI has evolved significantly over the past three decades. In parallel, significant advances have been made in optimizing the management of patients with SCI. Early surgical decompression, adequate bony decompression and expansile duraplasty are surgical strategies that may improve neurological and functional outcomes in patients with SCI. Furthermore, advances in the non-surgical management of SCI have been made, including optimization of hemodynamic management in the critical care setting. Several promising therapies have also been investigated in pre-clinical studies, with some being translated into clinical trials. Given the recent interest in advancing precision medicine, several investigations have been performed to delineate the role of imaging, cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and serum biomarkers in predicting outcomes and curating individualized treatment plans for SCI patients. Finally, technological advancements in biomechanics and bioengineering have also found a role in SCI management in the form of neuromodulation and brain–computer interfaces.