MONITORING OF THE COURSE DURING TREATMENT OF SPINAL-CORD INJURY

There are several scores available for assessment of disability and ha ndicap in rehabilitation. In primary treatment most interest has so fa r been given to the assessment of neurological recovery after operativ e decompression of the spinal cord. Comparison of the results obtained with this method and the outcome in patient groups treated conservati vely revealed no quantitative differences. However, the quality of res ults was found to be better after surgery, particularly in the functio nal outcome. Scores should take account of this. The neurological clas sification of ASIA, IMSOP and DMGP seems to be suitable for assessment of the course throughout the rehabilitation period.