Medical procedures, complications, and outcomes for patients with spinal cord injury: A multicenter investigation comparing African Americans and whites

Model System:

SCI

Reference Type:

JA

Accession No.:

J47484.

Journal:

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2004 , 85, 3, 368-375

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study examined differences in rehabilitation outcomes for African American and whites with spinal cord injury. Outcomes compared included medical procedures and complications, the American Spinal Injury Association motor index, Functional Independence Measure scores at admission and discharge, and discharge dispositions. Analysis revealed differences in spinal surgeries, laparotomies, traction during acute care, and method of bladder management at discharge between African Americans and whites; however, these differences were generally accounted for by cause of injury rather than the direct effects of race. No differences were found regarding medical complications, functional outcomes, or discharge disposition.

Author(s):

Meade, Michelle A., Cifu, David X., Seel, Ronald T., McKinley, William O., Kreutzer, Jeffrey S.

Participating Centers: