THE LONG-TERM OUTCOME IN 149 PATIENTS WITH SPINAL-CORD INJURY

A longitudinal follow-up study of 149 spinal cord injured patients is presented. Ninety two patients have been visited and interviewed at ho me 7-10 years after injury (28% died during the follow-up). Disability was assessed using the Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and was correlated with the neurological level, impairment and spasticity. Th e handicap was assessed using the Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI). Multivariate analysis showed a correlation with age, neurolog ical impairment, sexual impairment, living conditions and social life. There was a high correlation with depression and the Functional Indep endence Measure. The early neurological examination correlated with th eir long term disability but not with their handicap.