Fatores que implicam na sexualidade dos pacientes com lesão medular / Factors that imply on the sexuality of patients with spindle injury

A Lesão Medular acomete as funções sexuais devido à interrupção dos estímulos neurais, determinando as disfunções sexuais que dependem do nível, tipo da lesão, fatores físicos, psíquicos e sociais. Surge, assim, o processo de reabilitação sexual no sentido de promover a reinserção desses indivíduos. Objetivo: Identificar as alterações fisiológicas, fatores psicológicos e sociais intrínsecos, dentro do contexto da sexualidade em indivíduos com Lesão Medular. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo exploratório, descritivo, de abordagem quantitativa, nos quais foram incluídos 50 participantes com Lesão Medular em um Centro de Reabilitação. O instrumento de coleta utilizado foi o Questionário de Sexualidade Humana na Lesão Medular, abordando aspectos da sexualidade nos períodos antes e após a lesão. Resultados: A sexualidade foi afetada negativamente, sendo que a vida sexual ativa, após a lesão, teve em média de frequência 2,02 (±1,80), vontade 7,15 (±2,66) e satisfação sexual 4,80 (±3,08), mostrando que esta reduziu significativamente. Quanto às respostas sexuais, a ejaculação é a mais afetada: média 0,61 (±2,08), seguida da ereção 3,02 (±3,20), orgasmo masculino 2,95 (±3,49) e orgasmo feminino 0,22 (±0,67). Além disso, foi possível constatar uma lacuna existente na abordagem da temática pelos profissionais de saúde, onde apenas 21(42%) dos indivíduos receberam algum tipo de aconselhamento sexual após a lesão. Conclusão: Tornaram-se claros os impactos negativos das alterações enfrentadas após a Lesão Medular quanto aos ajustes físicos, psicológicos e sociais ressaltando a necessidade de capacitação dos profissionais para que estejam aptos a realizarem a reabilitação sexual desses indivíduos

Spinal cord injury affects sexual functions due to interruption of neural stimuli, determining sexual dysfunctions that will depend on the level, type of injury, physical, psychological and social factors. Thus arises the process of sexual rehabilitation, in the sense of promoting the reintegration of these individuals. Objective: Identify the physiological alterations, intrinsic psychological and social factors, within the context of sexuality in individuals with Spinal Cord Injury. Methods: This is an exploratory, descriptive study with a quantitative approach, in which 50 participants with Spinal Cord Injury in a Rehabilitation Center were included. The collection instrument used was the Questionnaire of Human Sexuality in Spinal Cord Injury, addressing aspects of sexuality in the periods before and after the injury. Results: Sexuality was negatively affected, in which active sex life after the injury had an average frequency of 2.02 (±1.80), desire 7.15 (±2.66) and sexual satisfaction 4.80 (±3 .08), showing that it reduced significantly. As for sexual responses, ejaculation is the most affected, mean 0.61 (±2.08), followed by erection 3.02 (±3.20), male orgasm 2.95 (±3.49) and female orgasm 0.22 (±0.67). In addition, it was possible to verify an existing gap in the approach of the theme by health professionals, where only 21 (42%) of the individuals received some type of sexual counseling after the injury. Conclusion: It became clear the negative impacts of the alterations faced after the Spinal Cord Injury regarding the physical, psychological and social adjustments, emphasizing the need for professional training so that they are able to carry out the sexual rehabilitation of these individuals

Training load, stress, recovery, mood, and motivation of athletes with spinal cord injury in wheelchair rugby during a competitive preseason

Abstract Aim: This study aims to characterize the stress, recovery, mood, and motivation together with the training load of athletes with cervical spinal cord injury (CSCI) during a period of resumption of wheelchair rugby (WCR) training. Additionally, it aims to compare the psychological and load training aspects during a competitive preseason and determine the correlations between training load, mood, stress, and recovery. Methods: We evaluated variables such as mood (Brazilian Mood Scale, BRAMS), stress and recovery (Recovery-Stress Questionnaire for Athletes, RESTQ-Sport 76) and training load (Subjective Perception of Effort - SPE) of eight high-performance athletes of wheelchair rugby with CSCIs at three different times (E1 = returning from vacation, E2 = half of the preseason, and E3 = after 2 months of training) for 2 months at a monthly interval. We also evaluated motivation (Sport Motivation Scale) at E1 and E3. Results: Results indicated few changes during the competitive preseason in terms of stress, recovery, and mood. However, the training load decreased toward the end of this period. Furthermore, we found that physical complaints positively correlated with depression when resuming training. In the middle of the competitive preseason period, we also noted positive correlations between conflict/pressure and fatigue and between fatigue and energy loss. At the end of this period, the SPE and arbitrary units correlated positively with conflict/pressure. Conclusion: We found few changes during the competitive preseason in terms of stress, recovery, and mood but not motivation, which did not change during this period. On the other hand, the training load decreased at the end of the competitive preseason. Furthermore, we observed correlations between training load and psychological aspects at different times.

The efficacy of immediate implantation of macroporous poly(N-[2-hydroxypropyl]-methacrylamide) hydrogel after laceration spinal cord injury in young rats / Eficacia de la implantación inmediata de hidrogel macroporoso de poli (N- [2-hidroxipropil] - metacrilamida) después de una lesión de la médula espinal en ratas jóvenes

SUMMARY: Spinal cord regeneration after mechanical injury is one of the most difficult biomedical problems. This article evaluates the effect of poly(N-[2-hydroxypropyl]-methacrylamide) hydrogel (PHPMA-hydrogel) on spinal cord regeneration in young rats after lateral spinal cord hemi-excision (laceration) at the level of segments T12-T13 (TrGel group). The locomotor function score (FS) and the paretic hindlimb spasticity score (SS) were assessed according to Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) and Ashworth scales, respectively, and compared to a group of animals with no matrix implanted (Tr group). Regeneration of nerve fibers at the level of injury was evaluated at ~5 months after spinal cord injury (SCI). One week after the SCI induction, the FS on the BBB scale was 0.9±0.5 points in the Tr group and 3.6±1.2 points in the TrGel group. In the Tr group, the FS in 5 months was significantly lower than in 2 weeks after SCI, while no significant changes in FS were detected in the TrGel group over the entire observation period. The final FS was 0.8±0.3 points in the Tr group and 4.5±1.8 points in the TrGel group. No significant changes in SS have been observed in the TrGel group throughout the experiment, while the Tr group showed significant increases in SS at 2nd week, 6th week, 3th month and 5th month. The SS in 5 months was 3.6±0.3 points on the Ashworth scale in the Tr group and 1.8±0.7 points in the TrGel group. Throughout the observation period, significant differences in FS between groups were observed only in 5 weeks after SCI, whereas significant differences in SS were observed in 2, 3 and 6-8 weeks post-injury. Glial fibrous tissue containing newly formed nerve fibers, isolated or grouped in small clusters, that originated from the surrounding spinal cord matter have been found between the implanted hydrogel fragments. In conclusion, PHPMA-hydrogel improves recovery of the hindlimb locomotor function and promotes regenerative growth of nerve fibers. Further research is needed to clarify the mechanism of this PHPMA-hydrogel effect.

RESUMEN: La regeneración de la médula espinal después de una lesión mecánica es uno de los problemas biomédicos más difíciles. Este artículo evalúa el efecto del hidrogel de poli (N- [2-hidroxipropil] -metacrilamida) (PHPMA-hidrogel) sobre la regeneración de la médula espinal en ratas jóvenes después de la hemiescisión lateral de la médula espinal (lesión) a nivel de los segmentos T12 - T13 (Grupo TrGel). La puntuación de la función locomotora (FS) y la puntuación de espasticidad parética de las patas traseras (SS) se evaluaron de acuerdo con las escalas de Basso- Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) y Ashworth, respectivamente, y se compararon con un grupo de animales sin matriz implantada (grupo Tr). Se evaluó la regeneración de las fibras nerviosas al nivel de la lesión ~ 5 meses después de la lesión de la médula espinal (LME). Una semana después de la inducción de SCI, el FS en la escala BBB fue 0,9 ± 0,5 puntos en el grupo Tr y 3,6 ± 1,2 puntos en el grupo TrGel. En el grupo Tr, el FS en 5 meses fue significativamente menor que en 2 semanas después de SCI, mientras que no se detectaron cambios significativos en FS en el grupo TrGel durante el período de observación. El FS final fue de 0,8 ± 0,3 puntos en el grupo Tr y de 4,5 ± 1,8 puntos en el grupo TrGel. No se han obser- vado cambios significativos en SS en el grupo TrGel durante el experimento, mientras que el grupo Tr mostró aumentos significativos en SS en la 2ª semana, 6ª semana, 3º mes y 5º mes. La SS en 5 meses fue de 3,6 ± 0,3 puntos en la escala de Ashworth en el grupo Tr y de 1,8 ± 0,7 puntos en el grupo TrGel. A lo largo del período de observación, se observaron diferencias significativas en FS entre los grupos solo en 5 semanas después de la LME, mientras que se observaron diferencias significativas en SS en 2, 3 y 6-8 semanas después de la lesión. Entre los fragmentos de hidrogel implantados se observó tejido fibroso glial que contenía fibras nerviosas recién formadas, aisladas o agrupadas en pequeños grupos, que se originaban a partir de la materia de la médula espinal circundante. En conclusión, PHPMA-hydrogel mejora la recuperación de la función locomotora de las patas traseras y promueve el crecimiento regenerativo de las fibras nerviosas. Se requieren más estudios para aclarar el mecanismo del efecto de hidrogel PHPMA.

Traumatismo raquimedular / Spinal cord injury

According to different publications, the neurological level most frequently involved in traumatic spinal cord injury is cervical (16%-75%), followed by thoracic (16%-36%) and lumbar (9%-17%). The abrupt interruption of nerve conduction at the spinal level causes spinal shock, characterized by an acute neurological, hemodynamic, respiratory and urinary compromise, which associates with thermoregulation problems. Neurological repercussions are characterized by a motor compromise, evidenced as flaccid paralysis with areflexia, sensory damage, abolition of sympathetic activity and loss of adaptive reflexes in the territory located below the lesion. The management of traumatic spinal cord, both, isolated or associated with multiple trauma, must begin at the scene of the accident. The current trend is towards a selective immobilization identifiying the group of patients in whom it will have a real benefit. Clinical features of spinal shock and other clinical aspects of the spinal cord injury are described in detail. Diagnosis should include a complete neurological examination including imaging studies. The type of image of choice is computerized axial tomography (CT). Different treatment alternatives are analyzed, including early or delayed descompressive surgery, methylprednisolone, neuroprotection and neuroregeneration. Finally, anesthetic management is described, the objective of which should be to reduce the movement of the lesion area (especially during positioning and the laryngoscopy and intubation maneuver) and to maintain the medullary perfusion pressure within normal limits. Postoperative care should focus on pain management, prevention of thromboembolic events and weaning from mechanical ventilation.

El nivel neurológico más frecuentemente comprometido en las lesiones raquimedulares por trauma es el cervical (16%-75%), seguido del torácico (16%-36%) y lumbar (9%-17%) según diferentes publicaciones. La brusca interrupción de la conducción nerviosa a nivel medular origina el cuadro de medular, caracterizado por un agudo compromiso neurológico, hemodinámico, respiratorio y urinario, asociado a problemas de termorregulación, con repercusiones neurológicas caracterizadas por un compromiso motor que se manifiesta como una parálisis fláccida con arreflexia, daño sensitivo, desaparición de la actividad simpática y pérdida de reflejos de adaptación en el territorio ubicado por debajo de la lesión. El manejo del trauna raquimedular asociado o no a politraumatismo debe inicirse en la escena del accidente; la tendencia actual es hacia una inmovilización selectiva, haciendo una identificación del grupo de pacientes en los que tendrá un real beneficio. Se describe detalladamente el cuadro de medular o espinal y otros aspectos clínicos de la sección medular. El diagnóstico debe incluir un examen neurológico completo y estudios de imagenología; el tipo de imagen de elección es la tomografía axial computarizada (TAC). Se analizan las diferentes alternativas de tratamiento: cirugía descompresiva precoz o diferida, metilprednisolona, neuroprotección y neurorregeneración. Finalmente se detalla el manejo anestésico, cuyo objetivo debe perseguir el menor movimiento de la zona de la lesión (especialmente durante el posicionamiento y la maniobra de laringoscopía e intubación) y el mantenimiento de la presión de perfusión medular dentro de los límites más estables posilbes. Los cuidados posoperatorios deben estar dirigidos especialmente al manejo de la analgesia, la prevención de la enfermedad tromboembólica y la desconexión de la ventilación mecánica.

Traumatismo raquimedular (TRM): revisión bibliográfica / Spinal cord injury (SCI): bibliographic review

La complejidad del traumatismo raquimedular (TRM) y su impacto en la vida futura de los pacientes hace necesario actualizar constantemente los protocolos de su manejo. La fisiopatología del TRM hace que la atención prehospitalaria y hospitalaria influyan en su evolución y por lo tanto, también en el pronóstico a largo plazo. Existe amplio consenso en relación al manejo prehospitalario, pero aún existe bastante controversia en respecto al manejo hospitalario y al mejor momento para operar a estos pacientes. La tendencia en los estudios más recientes sugiere que la mejor alternativa es operarlos tan pronto su estado general lo permita.

Traumatic lesions of the spinal cord are complex injuries that can deeply affect patients lives, so their management protocols must be kept up to date. Due to their particular physiopathology, this injuries are sensitive to both pre-hospital and hospital care, which will impact in long term results. Today, widespread consensus exists regarding pre-hospital care. On the contrary, there are still controversies in hospital care topics, such as timing of surgery. Recent studies suggest that the best time to operate is as soon as the patient general condition allows to.

Inquérito populacional sobre a funcionalidade das pessoas com lesão medular no Brasil: estudo de protocolo / Population survey on the functionality of people with spinal cord injury in Brazil: a protocol study

A pesquisa InSCI (International spinal cord injury) foi desenvolvida para descrever a saúde e o bem-estar de indivíduos com lesão medular (LM) em relação à comunidade local. Por isto, objetivo deste estudo será descrever as características pessoais, fatores ambientais, de saúde, de qualidade de vida, de trabalho dos indivíduos que vivem com lesão medular no Brasil e comparar os dados com outros países participantes da pesquisa. Este estudo deverá ser de caráter transversal observacional. Os indivíduos com LM serão recrutados no Instituto de Medicina Física e de Reabilitação (IMREA) do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, na Rede de Reabilitação Lucy Montoro (IRLM) e na Associação Fluminense de Reabilitação (AFR). Participarão do estudo 400 indivíduos de ambos os sexos com idade igual ou superior a 18 anos com diagnóstico de lesão medular de origem traumática cujo tempo de lesão esteja superior a 3 meses. Os voluntários realizarão uma avaliação inicial por meio de questionário com 125 perguntas sobre problemas de saúde, atividade e participação, independência nas atividades de vida diária, trabalho, fatores ambientais e pessoais, serviços de saúde e qualidade de vida. As associações entre as variáveis serão feitas testes de correlação de Pearson ou Spearman. Modelos simples de regressão linear ou logística também poderão ser usados de acordo com os dados obtidos. Os procedimentos de processamento e ajuste de dados obedecerão às recomendações das Diretrizes Cross-Cultural Survey (CCSG) e ao fortalecimento do Relatório de Estudos Observatórios em Epidemiologia (STROBE).

An International Spinal Cord Injury survey was developed to describe health and to be well subject to spinal cord injuries in relation to the local community. The objective of this study will be well subject to spinal cord injuries in relation to the local community. The objective of this study will be to describe how personal resources, environmental, health, quality of life, work conditions of individuals who suffer from spinal cord injury in Brazil and data comparison with other countries participating in the research. This study must be of an observational cross-sectional character. Individuals will be recruited at the Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of the Hospital de Clínicas of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of São Paulo, the Lucy Montoro Rehabilitation Network and the Fluminense Rehabilitation Association. Participate in the study 400 individuals with both sexes aged 18 years or older diagnosed with traumatic spinal cord injury whose injury time is longer than 3 months. The volunteers will carry out an initial evaluation through a questionnaire with 125 questions about health problems, activity and participation, independence in activities of daily living, work, environmental and personal factors, health services and quality of life. Variations between variables can be made using Pearson or Spearman correlation. Simple linear or logistic regression models can also be used according to the data obtained. The procedures for processing and adjusting data obey the recommendations of the Intercultural Research of Guidelines and the strengthening of the Report on Observatory Studies in Epidemiology.

Antibiotic prophylaxis prior to urodynamic study in patients with traumatic spinal cord injury. Is there an indication?

ABSTRACT Study design: Retrospective cohort of patients with traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) that have been hospitalized for physical-functional rehabilitation purposes. Objectives: To compare the incidence of urinary tract infection (UTI) after urodynamic study (UDS) in three hospitals that adopted different protocols with regard to the preparation of patients. Setting: Sarah Network of Rehabilitation Hospitals, Brazil. Materials and Methods: Between 2014 and 2015, 661 patients from three units of the same hospital network, one of which does not use antimicrobial prophylaxis independently of urine culture results, were evaluated after having undergone UDS. The results were compared in both univariate and multivariate analyses (logistic regression). Results: The global rate of UTI after UDS was that of 3.18% (IC 95% 2.1-4.8), with no differences between the units. In the univariate analysis the only variable that was associated with UTI after UDS was that of T6 injuries or above (P = 0.029). The logistic regression has confirmed this result, with an adjusted odds ratio of 3.06 (IC 95% 1.01 to 9.26; P = 0.0476). The use of antimicrobial prophylaxis did not alter that risk. Conclusions: This study has demonstrated that the use of antimicrobials does not prevent UTI after UDS. Patients with T6 traumatic SCI or above have got three times more chance of developing UTI after UDS if compared to those with a T7 injury or below, independently of the use of antimicrobials. Even in these patients the use of antimicrobials would not be justified.

Neurogenic Shock: Clinical Management and Particularities in an Emergency Room

Neurogenic shock has a strong impact in traumatology. It is an important condition, associated with lesions in the neuraxis and can be medullar and/or cerebral. In the last years, its pathophysiology has been better understood, allowing a reduction in the morbimortality with more precise and efficacious interventions taking place in the emergency room. In this review article, the author presents the current aspects of the management of neurogenic shock, highlighting the neuroprotective measures that improve the outcome. Many pharmacologic interventions are still questionable and need more prospective studies to accurately assess their real value. The best moment for neurosurgical intervention is also debatable. Quite clearly, the initial proceedings in the emergency room are fundamental to guarantee the adequate conditions for neuroplasticity and neuronal rehabilitation.

Strategies to teach swimming to people with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

The Swimming has numerous benefits in the physiological, psychological, social and cognitive aspects for the person with spinal cord injury. However, the process of learning the swim must be done in order to take advantage of the potential and the motor functions of the swimmer, through the planning of actions and teaching strategies that seek an effective swim with the fewest adaptations possible and respecting the specific conditions of the lesion. The objective was to verify how the teacher evaluates the motor function of the swimmer with the SCI and to understand how this instructional process acts in the learning of swimming through the perspective of the teacher. Methods: Participated in the research, twelve Physical Education teachers, who work with spinal cord injury swimmers. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and a field diary. Results: The results demonstrated that, depending on the teaching style adopted by the teacher, he does not consider the student's feedback and perception. He acts only on the results and possibilities he sees. Therefore, in the teacher's view, the adaptability of the swimming technique is conditioned to the motor limitation of the individual with SCI, or according to the teacher's perspective on the functionality. Conclusion: We conclude that the use of strategies based on the traditional swimming technique showed that there is little awareness or lack of knowledge about the work of promoting the swimmer's motor function, confirmed to the extent that the contribution of the specific literature is incipient and does not satisfy the teacher's desire for knowledge.(AU)

Standardization of a spinal cord lesion model and neurologic evaluation using mice

OBJECTIVE: To standardize a spinal cord lesion mouse model. METHODS: Thirty BALB/c mice were divided into five groups: four experimental groups and one control group (sham). The experimental groups were subjected to spinal cord lesion by a weight drop from different heights after laminectomy whereas the sham group only underwent laminectomy. Mice were observed for six weeks, and functional behavior scales were applied. The mice were then euthanized, and histological investigations were performed to confirm and score spinal cord lesion. The findings were evaluated to prove whether the method of administering spinal cord lesion was effective and different among the groups. Additionally, we correlated the results of the functional scales with the results from the histology evaluations to identify which scale is more reliable. RESULTS: One mouse presented autophagia, and six mice died during the experiment. Because four of the mice that died were in Group 5, Group 5 was excluded from the study. All the functional scales assessed proved to be significantly different from each other, and mice presented functional evolution during the experiment. Spinal cord lesion was confirmed by histology, and the results showed a high correlation between the Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan Locomotor Rating Scale and the Basso Mouse Scale. The mouse function scale showed a moderate to high correlation with the histological findings, and the horizontal ladder test had a high correlation with neurologic degeneration but no correlation with the other histological parameters evaluated. CONCLUSION: This spinal cord lesion mouse model proved to be effective and reliable with exception of lesions caused by a 10-g drop from 50 mm, which resulted in unacceptable mortality. The Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan Locomotor Rating Scale and Basso Mouse Scale are the most reliable functional assessments, and but the horizontal ladder test is not recommended.

Comparison among bone marrow mesenchymal stem and mononuclear cells to promote functional recovery after spinal cord injury in rabbits

Abstract Purpose: To investigate the efficacy of allogeneic mesenchymal stem-cells and autologous mononuclear cells to promote sensorimotor recovery and tissue rescue. Methods: Female rabbits were submitted to the epidural balloon inflation method and the intravenous cells administrations were made after 8 hours or seven days after injury induction. Sensorimotor evaluation of the hindlimbs was performed, and the euthanasia was made thirty days after the treatment. Spinal cords were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Results: Both therapies given 8 hours after the injury promoted the sensorimotor recovery after a week. Only the group treated after a week with mononuclear cells showed no significant recovery at post-injury day 14. In the days 21 and 28, all treatments promoted significant recovery. Histopathological analysis showed no difference among the experimental groups. Our results showed that both bone marrow-derived cell types promoted significant sensorimotor recovery after injury, and the treatment made at least a week after injury is efficient. Conclusion: The possibilities of therapy with bone marrow-derived cells are large, increasing the therapeutic arsenal for the treatment of spinal cord injury.

Patients with chronic high spinal cord injury can be safely treated with neuromuscular electrical stimulation: cardiovascular function is unaffected / Pacientes com lesão crônica alta da medula espinhal podem ser tratados de forma segura com estimulação elétrica neuromuscular: a função cardiovascular não é afetada

OBJECTIVE: To identify changes in blood pressure and heart rate in individuals with chronic paraplegia undergone neuromuscular electrical stimulation treatment. METHOD: Design: Observational prospective. Participants: Twenty individuals with chronic paraplegia (neurological level above T6) belonging to two different groups (G1 and G2) were submitted to an upper limb exercise test. G1 patients (n=13) had been treated with neuromuscular electrical stimulation (25Hz, pulses of 300µs, 100V) for 2 years or more, at least once a week; G2 patients (n=7) did not receive neuromuscular electrical stimulation treatment; G3 individuals (n=6) were healthy volunteers. Procedures: Arterial blood pressure and heart rate were measured during four phases of the exercise test: at initial rest, during warmup, during the exercise itself, and at rest after the exercise. RESULTS: Systolic and diastolic blood pressures showed no statistical difference between groups. In the comparison between exercise phases, regardless of the group, systolic pressure was significantly higher and diastolic pressure significantly lower at the end of the exercise itself, when compared to all other phases. Resting heart rate was significantly lower in healthy controls vs. G1 and G2, which were not significantly different between themselves. Exercise increased heart rate in all groups. CONCLUSION: This study showed that the groups are normotensive and homogeneous in their results; heart rate was higher in both paraplegic groups compared to healthy controls, but no difference was found between treated vs. untreated groups. Thus, neuromuscular electrical stimulation is a safe and effective way to treat individuals with chronic paraplegia.

OBJETIVO: Identificar mudanças na pressão arterial e frequência cardíaca em indivíduos com paraplegia crônica tratados com estimulação elétrica neuromuscular. MÉTODO: Estudo prospectivo observacional. Participantes: vinte indivíduos com paraplegia crônica (nível neurológico acima de T6) pertencentes a dois diferentes grupos (G1 e G2) foram submetidos a um teste de exercício de membros superiores. Os pacientes do G1 (n = 13) haviam sido tratados com estimulação elétrica neuromuscular (25 Hz, pulsos de 300 µs, 100 V) por 2 anos ou mais, pelo menos uma vez por semana; os pacientes do G2 (n = 7) não receberam o tratamento com estimulação elétrica neuromuscular; os indivíduos do G3 (n = 6) eram voluntários saudáveis. Procedimentos: A pressão sanguínea arterial e a frequência cardíaca foram medidas durante quatro fases do teste de exercício: no repouso inicial, durante o aquecimento, durante o exercício e no repouso após o exercício. RESULTADOS: As pressões arteriais sistólica e diastólica não apresentaram diferença estatística entre os grupos. Na comparação entre as fases do exercício, independentemente do grupo, a pressão sistólica foi significativamente maior e a pressão diastólica significativamente menor no final do exercício, em comparação com todas as outras fases. A frequência cardíaca em repouso foi significativamente menor em controles saudáveis ​​versus G1 e G2, que não foram significativamente diferentes entre eles mesmos. O exercício aumentou a frequência cardíaca em todos os grupos. CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo mostrou que os grupos são normotensos e homogêneos em seus resultados; a frequência cardíaca foi maior em ambos os grupos paraplégicos em comparação com controles saudáveis, mas nenhuma diferença foi encontrada entre os grupos tratados versus os não tratados. Assim, a estimulação elétrica neuromuscular é uma maneira segura e eficaz de tratar indivíduos com paraplegia crônica.

Qualidade de vida de cuidadores familiares de adultos com lesão medular: uma revisão sistemática / Quality of life of family caregivers of adults with spinal cord injury: a systematic review

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a qualidade de vida de cuidadores familiares de adultos com lesão medular. Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática por dois pesquisadores, de forma independente, dos artigos publicados no período de 2000 a 2014, utilizando os descritores quality of life and caregivers or family and spinal cord, em português, inglês e espanhol. A busca foi conduzida na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS) e no United States National Library of Medicine (PubMED). Os cuidadores de tetraplégicos apresentam pior qualidade de vida em relação aos paraplégicos. As mudanças na qualidade de vida dos cuidadores não foram significativas ao longo do tempo. Resultados diferentes foram observados ao comparar cuidadores de adultos com lesão medular e indivíduos saudáveis. Os fatores que influenciaram negativamente na qualidade de vida dos cuidadores foram presença de doença crônica; maior tempo de cuidado, idade e número de filhos; e menor nível de escolaridade. É necessário o desenvolvimento de políticas públicas de saúde e elaboração de estratégias de intervenção mais abrangentes que incluam não apenas o paciente, mas também o cuidador.

Abstract The scope of this study was to analyze the quality of life of family caregivers of adults with spinal cord injury. Two researchers conducted a systematic review independently, based on articles published between 2000 to 2014, using the key words quality of life and caregivers or family and spinal cord, in Portuguese, English and Spanish. The search was conducted in the Virtual Health Library (BVS) and the United States National Library of Medicine (PubMED) databases. Caregivers of tetraplegics have a worse quality of life than caregivers of paraplegics. Changes in the quality of life for the caregivers were not significant over time. Different results were observed when comparing caregivers of adults with spinal cord injury and healthy subjects. Factors that negatively influence the quality of life of caregivers were the presence of chronic disease; greater care time, age and number of children; and lower schooling level of caregivers. There is a need for public health policy development and preparation of more comprehensive intervention strategies that include not only the patient but also the caregiver.

Effects of ganglioside G(M1) and erythropoietin on spinal cord lesions in rats: functional and histological evaluations

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the functional and histological effects of ganglioside G(M1) and erythropoietin after experimental spinal cord contusion injury. METHODS: Fifty male Wistar rats underwent experimental spinal cord lesioning using an NYU-Impactor device and were randomly divided into the following groups, which received treatment intraperitoneally. The G(M1) group received ganglioside G(M1) (30 mg/kg); the erythropoietin group received erythropoietin (1000 IU/kg); the combined group received both drugs; and the saline group received saline (0.9%) as a control. A fifth group was the laminectomy group, in which the animals were subjected to laminectomy alone, without spinal lesioning or treatment. The animals were evaluated according to the Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan (BBB) scale, motor evoked potential recordings and, after euthanasia, histological analysis of spinal cord tissue. RESULTS: The erythropoietin group had higher BBB scores than the G(M1) group. The combined group had the highest BBB scores, and the saline group had the lowest BBB scores. No significant difference in latency was observed between the three groups that underwent spinal cord lesioning and intervention. However, the combined group showed a significantly higher signal amplitude than the other treatment groups or the saline group (p<0.01). Histological tissue analysis showed no significant difference between the groups. Axonal index was significantly enhanced in the combined group than any other intervention (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: G(M1) and erythropoietin exert therapeutic effects on axonal regeneration and electrophysiological and motor functions in rats subjected to experimental spinal cord lesioning and administering these two substances in combination potentiates their effects.

Bladder response to acute sacral neuromodulation while treating rats in different phases of complete spinal cord injury: a preliminary study

Background: Compared to conventional therapies, sacral neuromodulation (SNM) may offer an alternative, non-destructive treatment for SCI patients with bladder dysfunction. Understanding bladder response to SNM treatment for SCI in different phases may yield new insights for innovative use of this promising technique. Materials and Methods: Female Sprague-Dawley rats were used in this study to examine the effects of acute SNM on bladder reflex in complete SCI rats. All rats were anesthetized and set up for continuous saline infusion. Acute SNM treatment was implemented for about 6 hours for each rat. Cystometric parameters, including time between contractions, contraction duration, bladder peak pressure, and number of uninhibited contractions, were analyzed and compared within rats before and after SNM treatment. Results: For the spinally transected rats during early phase (less than two weeks post spinalization), the time between contractions and contraction duration both increased after SNM treatments, yet the increased amplitude was about or less than 20%. For the spinally transected rats with a longer days survival (about two to four weeks post spinalization), the time between contractions and contraction duration substantially increased after SNM treatment and the changes for their average values were more than 90%. For the spinally transected rats with a much longer days survival (more than five weeks post spinalization), the time between contractions and contraction duration increased after SNM treatments, yet the magnitude of changes were less than 30%. Conclusion: The present study suggested that the significant effectiveness of SNM for complete SCI played its role after the spinal shock phase and prior to the development of detrusor overactivity. It indicated that the time point of SNM treatment is necessary to be paid attention.

Effects of estrogen on functional and neurological recovery after spinal cord injury: An experimental study with rats

OBJECTIVES:To evaluate the functional and histological effects of estrogen as a neuroprotective agent after a standard experimentally induced spinal cord lesion.METHODS:In this experimental study, 20 male Wistar rats were divided into two groups: one group with rats undergoing spinal cord injury (SCI) at T10 and receiving estrogen therapy with 17-beta estradiol (4mg/kg) immediately following the injury and after the placement of skin sutures and a control group with rats only subjected to SCI. A moderate standard experimentally induced SCI was produced using a computerized device that dropped a weight on the rat's spine from a height of 12.5 mm. Functional recovery was verified with the Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan scale on the 2nd, 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, 35th and 42nd days after injury and by quantifying the motor-evoked potential on the 42nd day after injury. Histopathological evaluation of the SCI area was performed after euthanasia on the 42nd day.RESULTS:The experimental group showed a significantly greater functional improvement from the 28th to the 42nd day of observation compared to the control group. The experimental group showed statistically significant improvements in the motor-evoked potential compared with the control group. The results of pathological histomorphometry evaluations showed a better neurological recovery in the experimental group, with respect to the proportion and diameter of the quantified nerve fibers.CONCLUSIONS:Estrogen administration provided benefits in neurological and functional motor recovery in rats with SCI beginning at the 28th day after injury.

Driving evaluation methods for able-bodied persons and individuals with lower extremity disabilities: a review of assessment modalities

Assessing the driving abilities of individuals with disabilities is often a very challenging task because each medical condition is accompanied by physical impairments and because relative individual functional performance may vary depending on personal characteristics.We identified existing driving evaluation modalities for able-bodied and lower extremity-impaired subjects (spinal cord injury patients and amputees) and evaluated the potential relationships between driving performance and the motor component of driving.An extensive scoping review of the literature was conducted to identify driving assessment tools that are currently used for able-bodied individuals and for those with spinal cord injury or lower extremity amputation. The literature search focused on the assessment of the motor component of driving. References were electronically obtained via Medline from the PubMed, Ovid, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases.This article compares the current assessments of driving performance for those with lower extremity impairments with the assessments used for able-bodied persons. Very few articles were found concerning “Lower Extremity Disabilities,” thus confirming the need for further studies that can provide evidence and guidance for such assessments in the future. Little is known about the motor component of driving and its association with the other driving domains, such as vision and cognition. The available research demonstrates the need for a more evidenced-based understanding of how to best evaluate persons with lower extremity impairment.

Desempenho funcional de jogadores de basquete em cadeira de rodas com traumatismo da medula espinal / Functional performance of wheelchair basketball players with spinal cord injury

Os traumatismos da medula espinal comprometem as atividades diárias e limitam a mobilidade e a participação na comunidade. A prática do esporte adaptado melhora a funcionalidade, pois ela complementa o processo de reabilitação de pessoas que precisam de cadeira de rodas para locomoção. Objetivo: Avaliar o desempenho funcional de atletas praticantes de basquetebol em cadeira de rodas com disfunções por traumatismo da medula espinal. Método: Foi realizado um estudo transversal com 12 atletas. Para avaliar o desempenho funcional foi aplicado o Índice de Barthel Modificado, o teste Zigue-zague adaptado e o teste de arremesso de medicineball. A correlação do grau de dependência funcional com os demais testes de desempenho funcional foi realizada pelo teste de correlação não paramétrica de Spearman. Resultados: Seis atletas apresentavam dependência moderada e seis dependência leve. O tempo médio para percorre o teste de agilidade em zigue-zague foi de 27,3 ± 3,8 segundos. A distância média para arremesso de medicineball foi de 5,2 ± 0,9 metros. Observou-se correlação negativa e forte entre o Índice de Barthel e o teste de agilidade (r = -0,9193, p < 0,0001). Conclusão: A amostra estudada apresentou-se como dependente moderada e leve para a realização das atividades de vida diária, com potência de membro superior e cintura escapula semelhante aos descritos na literatura e agilidade abaixo dos valores citados na literatura.

Spinal cord injuries affect people's daily activities and limit their mobility and participation in the community. Adapted sports improve functioning because they supplement the rehabilitation of people who need a wheelchair for mobility. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional performance of wheelchair basketball players with spinal cord injury. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 12 athletes. To evaluate their functional performance the Modified Barthel Index, the adapted version of Texas Fitness test, and the medicine ball test were applied. The correlation of functional dependence with other functional performance tests was performed by the nonparametric Spearman test. Results: Six athletes were classified as moderately dependent and six as mildly dependent. The average time for the adapted version of Texas Fitness test was 27.3 ± 3.8 seconds. The average distance for the medicine ball test was 5.2 ± 0.9 meters. We observed a strong negative correlation between the Modified Barthel Index and the adapted version of Texas Fitness test (r = -0.9193, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The sample group presented as mildly to moderately dependent in carrying out the activities of daily living, with upper limb strength similar to what is described in the literature, but with less agility.

Screening of Connexin 26 in Nonsyndromic Hearing Loss

Introduction The first locus for nonsyndromic autosomal recessive hearing loss is on chromosome 13q11-22. The 35delGmutation is present in 80% of cases in which GJB2 is involved, which makes the study of this mutation very important. The viability and benefits of screening for mutations in the connexin 26 gene are now beginning to change the diagnostic evaluation and identification of the etiology of hearing loss. Objective To investigate the occurrence of the 35delG mutation in patients with nonsyndromic sensorineural hearing loss and their first degree relatives. Methods This transversal study included 72 patients from the local hospital. The patients were divided into three groups: group A, sensorineural hearing loss (n = 58); group B, first-degree relatives of group A with sensorineural hearing loss (n = 09); and group C, first-degree relatives of patients from group A without hearing loss (n = 05). All patients had audiological evaluation and genetic testing of the 35delG mutation. Results The 35delG mutation was found in four heterozygous mutations (three of them found in the same family). The other heterozygous mutation was found in a female patient with bilateral, moderate, prelingual, sensorineural hearing loss. A single homozygous mutation was found in a male patient, with severe sensorineural hearing loss in his right ear and profound hearing loss in the left ear. Conclusions The 35delG mutation was found in 7% of the cases. The test is easy to perform and inexpensive, but it is necessary to investigate other genes related to hearing loss. .

A cadeira de rodas e seus componentes essenciais para a locomoção de pessoas com tetraplegia por lesão da medula espinhal / The wheelchair and its essential components for the mobility of quadriplegic persons with spinal cord injury

Objetivo: Compreender quais itens são essenciais à cadeira de rodas (CR) na perspectiva dapessoa tetraplégica por lesão da medula espinhal (LME). Método: O estudo qualitativo foi comentrevista semi-estruturada e análise de discurso, bem como, checklist da CR em uso e do SistemaÚnico de Saúde (SUS). Resultados: No total foram dez entrevistados: nove homens e uma mulher,média de idade de 42,3 anos (± 9,23), dois advogados, um economista e demais aposentados.As causas da LME foram acidente automobilístico (60%), mergulho em águas rasas (30%) eatropelamento (10%), respectivamente. O tempo de lesão foi em média 16,3 anos (± 7,14) e todosrealizavam fisioterapia. Os números de CR, até a adequada, foram duas a cinco e todos praticavamesporte adaptado ou lazer com CR. O checklist apontou itens insuficientes na CR do SUS e daanálise dos discursos resultaram em quatro categorias: Itens, materiais e condições necessárias;A conquista da funcionalidade; Vantagens e desvantagens da CR; e Sentimentos vivenciados. A CRé essencial para a locomoção das pessoas com tetraplegia e conhecer modelos, experimentar eter orientações sobre os itens adequados são importantes para a aquisição. Os itens adequadosfacilitam a aceitação, melhor adaptação, locomoção e autonomia. Conclusão: A cadeira do SUSmostrou-se insuficiente, o que leva ao abandono. A adquirida por funcionalidade, com itensessenciais, o que responde a individualidade e ao gosto do usuário, mostrou-se útil e adequadaapesar de seu elevado custo.

Objective: This study sought to understand which items are essential to the wheelchair from the perspective of a person with quadriplegic spinal cord injury (SCI). Method: The study was qualitative with semi-structured interviews and discourse analysis, as well as a checklist of the wheelchair being used and the wheelchair provided by the government's Unified Health System (SUS). Results: The causes of SCI were motor vehicle accidents (60%), diving into shallow waters (30%) and being struck by a vehicle (10%), respectively and the injury time averaged 16.3 years (± 7.14). All of the subjects were in physiotherapy. The number of wheelchairs tested before finding the proper one were two to five and some participants practiced adapted sports with the wheelchair. The checklist showed that the government wheelchair had insufficient items and the discourse analysis resulted in four categories: Items, materials, and conditions; Learning functionality; Advantages and disadvantages of the wheelchair; and Feelings experienced. The wheelchair is essential to acquiring mobility for people with quadriplegia and trying out different models and getting orientation on the items are important for their acquisition. Suitable items facilitate acceptance, better adaptation, mobility and enable autonomy. Conclusion: The wheelchair from the government's health system was insufficient, leading to its being abandoned, and wheelchairs acquired for their functionality, with essential items, responsive to the user's individuality and taste proved to be useful and appropriate, despite their high cost.