Infectious Complications after Spinal Cord Injury

Abstract

Infectious diseases after spinal cord injury (SCI) are important. They can cause mortality and morbidity. The SCI patients usually stay in hospital or rehabilitation units for a long time, and this can cause several complications for them. Infectious complications: There are several infectious complications in these patients. Pressure ulcers that may be infected, soft tissue infections, osteomyelitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, bacteremia, meningitis, epidural abscess, and subdural empyema are important complications. These diseases should be diagnosed and managed promptly, before leading to irreversible complications or death. Diagnosis: Diagnosis is made by physical examinations; laboratory tests like wound, urine, tracheal secretion, and blood culture with antibiogram; and radiologic evaluation like plain X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging may be used. Treatment: Appropriate antibiotics are cornerstone of infectious complications. Offloading is important for treatment of pressure ulcers and subsequent complications such as soft tissue infection and osteomyelitis. Prevention: Intermittent urinary catheterization and prophylactic antibiotic therapy can decrease UTI. Pressure relief, position changes, and regular and frequent observation of skin will prevent pressure ulcers, soft tissue infections, and osteomyelitis. Pulmonary toilet, appropriate positioning, and cough assistance can be useful for clearing retained secretions and preventing pneumonia.