Validity of the patient health questionnaire-9 in assessing major depressive disorder during inpatient spinal cord injury rehabilitation

Bombardier CH, Kalpakjian CZ, Graves DE, Dyer JR, Tate DG, Fann JR. Validity of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 in assessing major depressive disorder during inpatient spinal cord injury rehabilitation.ObjectiveTo investigate the validity of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) depression screening measure in people undergoing acute inpatient rehabilitation for spinal cord injury (SCI).DesignWe performed a blinded comparison of the PHQ-9 administered by research staff with the major depression module of the Structured Clinical Interview for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (SCID) conducted by a mental health professional.SettingInpatient rehabilitation units.ParticipantsParticipants (N=142) were patients undergoing acute rehabilitation for traumatic SCI who were at least 18 years of age, English speakers, and without severe cognitive, motor speech, or psychotic disorders. We obtained the SCID on 173 (84%) of 204 eligible patients. The final sample of 142 patients (69%) consisted of those who underwent both assessments within 7 days of each other.InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresPHQ-9 and SCID major depression module.ResultsParticipants were on average 42.2 years of age, 78.2% men, and 81.7% white, and 66.9% had cervical injuries. The optimal PHQ-9 cutoff (≥11) resulted in 35 positive screens (24.6%). Key indices of criterion validity were as follows: sensitivity, 1.00 (95% confidence interval [CI], .73–1.00); specificity, .84 (95% CI, .76–.89); Youden Index, .84; positive predictive value, .40 (95% CI, .24–.58); and negative predictive value, 1.00 (95% CI, .96–1.00). The area under the receiver operator curve was .92, and κ was .50. Total PHQ-9 scores were inversely correlated with subjective health state and quality of life since SCI.ConclusionsThe PHQ-9 meets criteria for good diagnostic accuracy compared with a structured diagnostic assessment for major depressive disorder even in the context of inpatient rehabilitation for acute traumatic SCI.     

Characterizing Natural Recovery of People With Initial Motor Complete Tetraplegia

ObjectiveTo determine the differences in neurologic recovery in persons with initial cervical American Spinal Cord Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) grades A and B over time.DesignRetrospective analysis of data from people with traumatic cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) enrolled in the National Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems (SCIMS) database from 2011-2019.SettingSCIMS centers.ParticipantsIndividuals (N=187) with traumatic cervical (C1-C7 motor level) SCI admitted with initial AIS grade A and B injuries within 30 days of injury, age 16 years or older, upper extremity motor score (UEMS) ≤20 on both sides, and complete neurologic data at admission and follow-up between 6 months and 2 years.InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresConversion in AIS grades, UEMS and lower extremity motor scores (LEMS), and sensory scores.ResultsMean time to initial and follow-up examinations were 16.1±7.3 days and 377.5±93.4 days, respectively. Conversion from an initial cervical AIS grades A and B to motor incomplete status was 13.4% and 50.0%, respectively. The mean UEMS change for people with initial AIS grades A and B did not differ (7.8±6.5 and 8.8±6.1; P=.307), but people with AIS grade B experienced significantly higher means of LEMS change (2.3±7.4 and 8.8±13.9 (P≤.001). The increased rate of conversion to motor incomplete status from initial AIS grade B appears to be the primary driving factor of increased overall motor recovery. Individuals with initial AIS grade B had greater improvement in sensory scores.ConclusionsWhile UEMS recovery is similar in persons with initial AIS grades A and B, the rate of conversion to motor incomplete status, LEMS, and sensory recovery are significantly different. This information is important for clinical as well as research considerations.     

Determining Pressure Injury Risk on Admission to Inpatient Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: A Comparison of the FIM,Spinal Cord Injury Pressure Ulcer Scale,and Braden Scale

ObjectiveAssess the utility of the admission Spinal Cord Injury Pressure Ulcer Scale (SCIPUS), Braden Scale, and the FIM for identifying individuals at risk for developing pressure injury during inpatient spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation.DesignRetrospective cohort.SettingTwo tertiary rehabilitation centers.ParticipantsIndividuals (N=754) participating in inpatient SCI rehabilitation.InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresLogistic regression analysis was performed to determine the utility of the SCIPUS, Braden Scale, and FIM for identifying individuals at risk for developing pressure injury (PI) during inpatient SCI rehabilitation. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, false negative rate, odds ratio, likelihood ratio, and area under the curve (AUC) are reported.ResultsThe SCIPUS total score and its individual items did not demonstrate acceptable accuracy (AUC≥0.7) whereas the Braden Scale (0.73) and the FIM score (0.74) did. Once items were dichotomized into high and low risk categories, 1 Braden item (friction and shear), 5 FIM items (bathing, toileting, bed/chair transfer, tub/shower transfer, toilet transfer), the FIM transfers subscale, FIM Motor subscale, and the FIM instrument as a whole, maintained AUCs ≥0.7 and negative predictive values ≥0.95. The FIM bed/chair transfer score demonstrated the highest likelihood ratio (2.62) and overall was the most promising measure for determining PI risk.ConclusionStudy findings suggest that a simple measure of mobility, admission FIM bed/chair transfer score of 1 (total assist), can identify at-risk individuals with greater accuracy than both an SCI specific instrument (SCIPUS) and a PI specific instrument (Braden). The FIM bed/chair transfer score can be readily determined at rehabilitation admission with minimal administrative and clinical burden.     

Determinants of Quality of Life in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury Using Structural Equation Modeling

ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to examine the interdependent associations between International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) domains and their relationship with environmental factors with regard to quality of life (QoL) in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).DesignSurvey, cross-sectional study, and model testing using structural equation modeling.SettingTwo inpatient and outpatient SCI rehabilitation units, Sheba Medical Center and Loewenstein Hospital, Israel.ParticipantsConvenience sample of 156 individuals with SCI (N=156).InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresQoL assessed by the World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment-BREF.Neurological impairment after SCI reflected by lesion completeness and neurologic level of injury as measured by the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury.The Spinal Cord Independence Measure to assess SCI-related task performance.ICF Brief Core Sets composition scores to assess impairment in body structure and function domains, limitations in activities, restriction in participation constructs, and the effect of environmental factors within the ICF model.ResultsLevel of spinal cord injury and ICF Brief Core Sets composite score relating to activities and participation construct demonstrated a direct significant association with QoL. Moreover, a significant indirect association with QoL was found between the composite scores in ICF body structure and function and environmental factors, level of spinal cord injury, time since injury onset, and sex. Because the Spinal Cord Independence Measure was not related to QoL, we inferred that the categories related to instrumental activities of daily living and participation exert the most significant influence on QoL.ConclusionsIn order to optimize improvements in quality of life, current rehabilitation programs should target limitations specifically related to instrumental activities of daily living and participation restrictions. It may serve as a focal point for further development of current therapeutic models and analytical methods that optimize rehabilitation planning and decision making among both health care professionals and patients.     

Muscle force and gait performance: relationships after spinal cord injury

OBJECTIVES: To relate locomotor function improvement, within the first 6 months after spinal cord injury (SCI), to an increase in Lower Extremity Motor Score (LEMS) and to assess the extent to which the level of lesion influenced the outcome of ambulatory capacity. DESIGN: Longitudinal and cross-sectional analyses. SETTING: Seven SCI rehabilitation centers. PARTICIPANTS: Patients (N=178) were analyzed longitudinally (group A, motor complete; group B, motor incomplete; nonwalking or group C, motor incomplete and able to stand). The cross-sectional analysis included 86 patients (paraplegic, n=46; tetraplegic, n=40; group 1 with limited and group 2 with unrestricted walking function 6 mo after SCI). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury (WISCI), gait speed, and LEMS. RESULTS: For group A, 24.8% of the patients improved in LEMS (median range, 0-10) and 7.7% in walking function (WISCI median range, 0-8; mean gait speed range, 0 to .14+/-.10 m/s). For group B, LEMS improved in 93.5% of the patients (median range, 14-28) and walking function in 84.8% of the patients (WISCI median range, 0-10; mean gait speed range, 0 to .41+/-.45 m/s) (P<.001). For group C, LEMS and walking function improved in 100% of the patients (LEMS median range, 29-41; WISCI median range, 8-16; mean gait speed range, .36+/-.29 m/s to .88+/-.44 m/s) (P=.001). In groups B and C, the improvement of walking function was greater than in LEMS. The cross-sectional analysis showed that group 1 patients with tetraplegia had more muscle strength (median LEMS, 31.5), and equal walking function (WISCI, 8; walking speed, 0.4+/-0.3 m/s) compared with patients with paraplegia (LEMS, 23; P<.01; WISCI, 12; P=0.6; speed, 0.4+/-0.3 m/s; P=.68). In group 2, patients with tetraplegia had slightly more strength (LEMS, 48) and equal walking function (WISCI, 20; walking speed, 1.4+/-0.3 m/s) compared with patients with paraplegia (LEMS, 45; P<.05; WISCI, 20; P=1.0; speed, 1.4+/-0.3 m/s; P=.89). CONCLUSIONS: An improvement in locomotor function does not always reflect an increase in LEMS, and LEMS improvement is not necessarily associated with improved locomotor function. LEMS and ambulatory capacity are differently associated in patients with tetra- and paraplegia. Functional tests seem to complement clinical assessment.     

Using Implementation Science to Guide the Process of Adapting a Patient Engagement Intervention for Inpatient Spinal Cord Injury/Disorder Rehabilitation

ObjectivesThis study aimed to describe the process of adapting an evidence-based patient engagement intervention, enhanced medical rehabilitation (E-MR), for inpatient spinal cord injury/disease (SCI/D) rehabilitation using an implementation science framework.DesignWe applied the collaborative intervention planning framework and included a community advisory board (CAB) in an intervention mapping process.SettingA rehabilitation hospital.ParticipantsStakeholders from inpatient SCI/D rehabilitation (N=7) serving as a CAB and working with the research team (N=7) to co-adapt E-MR.InterventionsE-MR.Main Outcome MeasuresLogic model and matrices of change used in CAB meetings to identify areas of intervention adaptation.ResultsThe CAB and research team implemented adaptations to E-MR, including (1) identifying factors influencing patient engagement in SCI/D rehabilitation (eg, therapist training); (2) revising intervention materials to meet SCI/D rehabilitation needs (eg, modified personal goals interview and therapy trackers to match SCI needs); (3) incorporating E-MR into the rehabilitation hospital's operations (eg, research team coordinated with CAB to store therapy trackers in the hospital system); and (4) retaining fidelity to the original intervention while best meeting the needs of SCI/D rehabilitation (eg, maintained core E-MR principles while adapting).ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that structured processes guided by an implementation science framework can help researchers and clinicians identify adaptation targets and modify the E-MR program for inpatient SCI/D rehabilitation.     

Functional Recovery During Inpatient Rehabilitation in Children With Anoxic or Hypoxic Brain Injury

ObjectivesTo (1) describe characteristics of children with anoxic or hypoxic brain injuries (AnHBI) who presented to an inpatient rehabilitation unit, (2) explore functional outcomes of children with AnHBI at discharge, and (3) examine differences between children with AnHBI associated with cardiac arrest (CA) vs those with respiratory arrest (RA) only.DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingPediatric inpatient rehabilitation hospital in the Northeast United States.ParticipantsA total of 46 children and adolescents ages 11 months to 18 years admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation brain injury unit (1994-2018) for a first inpatient admission after AnHBI.InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresPediatric Cerebral Performance Category Scale (PCPC), Pediatric Overall Performance Category, and Functional Independence Measure for Children developmental functional quotients (WeeFIM DFQs) total and subscale scores.ResultsMost children had no disability before injury (PCPC=normal, n=37/46) and displayed significant functional impairments at admission to inpatient rehabilitation (PCPC=normal/mild, n=1/46). WeeFIM and PCPC scores improved significantly during inpatient rehabilitation (WeeFIM DFQ Total, P=.003; PCPC, P<.001), although many children continued to demonstrate significant impairments at discharge (PCPC=normal/mild, n=5/46). Functioning was better for the RA-only group relative to the CA group at admission (WeeFIM DFQ Total, P=.006) and discharge (WeeFIM DFQ Total, P<.001). Ongoing gains in functioning were noted 3 months after discharge compared with discharge (WeeFIM DFQ Cognitive, P=.008).ConclusionsIn this group of children with AnHBI who received inpatient rehabilitation, functional status improves significantly between rehabilitation admission and discharge. By discharge, many children continued to display significant impairments, a minority of children had favorable neurologic outcomes, and children with CA have worse outcomes than those with RA-only. Given the small sample size, future research should examine functional recovery during inpatient rehabilitation in a larger, multisite cohort and include longer-term follow-up to examine recovery patterns over time.     

Retrospective study of the effects of inpatient rehabilitation on improving and maintaining functional independence in people with friedreich ataxia

Milne SC, Campagna EJ, Corben LA, Delatycki MB, Teo K, Churchyard AJ, Haines TP. Retrospective study of the effects of inpatient rehabilitation on improving and maintaining functional independence in people with Friedreich ataxia.ObjectivesTo determine the effects of inpatient intervention for people with Friedreich ataxia (FRDA), and to identify whether improvements gained were sustained postdischarge.DesignThis retrospective observational cohort study comprised people with FRDA admitted to inpatient rehabilitation.SettingAll participants in the study were referred by a specialist multidisciplinary FRDA clinic to inpatient rehabilitation.ParticipantsFrom 2003 until 2010, people (N=29; men, n=17; women, n=12) with FRDA were admitted to rehabilitation, representing 42 admissions. On admission, 9 participants were ambulant and 33 participants were nonambulant.InterventionsEach participant was prescribed goal-related therapy on an individual basis by the multidisciplinary team, and this consisted of a range of treatment approaches.Main Outcome MeasureThe FIM was used to determine the efficacy of inpatient rehabilitation.ResultsConsistent with the progressive nature of the condition, FIM scores, as measured on an annual basis preintervention, declined over time. However, FIM scores increased by a mean of 8.5 points during periods of inpatient rehabilitation and continued to increase by a mean of 2.0 points during the period immediately after rehabilitation. Results demonstrate these increases during and immediately after inpatient rehabilitation were significant (P<.001).ConclusionsTo the best of our knowledge, this study provides the first evidence that a period of inpatient rehabilitation reverses or halts the downward decline in function for people with FRDA. The benefits from this intervention continued during the period immediately after inpatient rehabilitation, indicating that these gains are more than just short-term achievements. Further exploration of intensity, type, and length of rehabilitation is required to ensure that the most appropriate rehabilitation is provided.     

Prevalence and Determinants of Pain in Spinal Cord Injury During Initial Inpatient Rehabilitation: Data From the Dutch Spinal Cord Injury Database

ObjectiveTo describe the prevalence and characteristics of spinal cord injury (SCI)-related pain during initial inpatient rehabilitation and to investigate relationships with demographic and lesion characteristics.DesignCohort during inpatient rehabilitation.SettingEight specialized SCI rehabilitation centers in the Netherlands.ParticipantsPatients with newly acquired SCI admitted for inpatient rehabilitation between November 2013 and August 2019 (N=1432).InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresPresence of pain at admission and discharge. Logistic regression analyses were used to study the prevalence of pain related to sex, age, etiology, completeness, and level of injury.ResultsData from 1432 patients were available. Of these patients 64.6% were male, mean age was 56.8 years, 59.9% had a nontraumatic SCI, 63.9% were classified as American Spinal Cord Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) D and 56.5% had paraplegia. Prevalence of pain was 61.2% at admission (40.6% nociceptive pain [NocP], 30.2% neuropathic pain [NeuP], 5.4% other pain) and 51.5% at discharge (26.0% NocP, 31.4% NeuP, 5.7% other pain). Having NocP at admission was associated with traumatic SCI. AIS B had a lower risk of NocP than AIS D at admission. Having NocP at discharge was associated with female sex and traumatic SCI. AIS C had a lower risk of NocP at discharge than AIS D. Having NeuP at admission was associated with female sex. Having NeuP at discharge was associated with female sex, age younger than 65 years vs age older than 75 years and tetraplegia.ConclusionsSCI-related pain is highly prevalent during inpatient rehabilitation. Prevalence of NocP decreased during inpatient rehabilitation, and prevalence of NeuP stayed the same. Different patient and lesion characteristics were related to the presence of SCI-related pain. Healthcare professionals should be aware of these differences in screening patients on presence and development of pain during inpatient rehabilitation.     

Validation of Upper Extremity Motor Function as a Key Predictor of Bladder Management After Spinal Cord Injury

ObjectiveTo validate if better upper extremity (UE) motor function predicts clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) adoption and adherence after spinal cord injury (SCI) using a validated instrument (as opposed to prior research using scales based on expert opinion).DesignWe examined data from the Neurogenic Bladder Research Group SCI registry, a multicenter, prospective, observational study assessing persons with neurogenic bladder following SCI. All participants who were unable to volitionally void and were >1 year post injury were included. Participants were dichotomized into those performing CIC vs those using other bladder management methods. In addition to demographic and clinical characteristics, UE motor function was examined using the SCI-Fine Motor Function Index using validated categorization levels: (1) no activities requiring hand function, (2) some activities involving gross hand movement, (3) some activities requiring dexterity or coordinated UE movement, or (4) most activities requiring dexterity and coordinated UE movement. Associations were examined using logistic regression.SettingMulticenter study.ParticipantsRegistry participants unable to volitionally void after SCI (N=1236).InterventionNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasureUpper extremity motor function association with CIC.ResultsA total of 1326 individuals met inclusion criteria (66% performing CIC, 60% male, and 82% white). On multivariate analysis, better UE motor function was associated with a statistically increased odds of performing CIC (odds ratio, 3.10 [Level 3] and odds ratio, 8.12 [Level 4] vs Levels 1 and 2 [P<.001]).ConclusionIn persons with SCI who are unable to volitionally void, UE motor function is highly associated with CIC. These results validate prior findings and continue to suggest that following SCI, the degree of preserved UE motor function is associated with CIC more than any other factor.     

Impact of Medicare prospective payment system on acute rehabilitation outcomes of patients with spinal cord injury

Qu H, Shewchuk RM, Chen Y, Deutsch A. Impact of Medicare prospective payment system on acute rehabilitation outcomes of patients with spinal cord injury.

Objective

To examine the impact of Medicare's inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) prospective payment system (PPS) on inpatient rehabilitation outcomes for patients with traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI).

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

Twelve SCI Model Systems.

Participants

A sample of Medicare (n=296) and non-Medicare (n=3110) patients was selected from the National SCI Statistical Center Database from 1996 to 2006.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

Motor FIM score change and length of stay (LOS).

Results

LOS decreased by about 5.8 days a year (P<.001) for Medicare patients and about 1.3 days a year (P=.031) for non-Medicare patients after PPS implementation. However, for both groups, FIM score gains were not significantly different in the pre-PPS and PPS periods.

Conclusions

Although significant decreases in LOS were observed for Medicare patients after IRF PPS implementation, Medicare patients' improvements in motor function did not decrease. Non-Medicare patients with SCI also experienced shortened stays after Medicare IRF PPS implementation, but had equivalent FIM score gains compared with their counterparts who received inpatient rehabilitation care before PPS implementation. IRF PPS implementation was associated with shorter stays, but was not associated with lower functional improvement.     

Influence of Sex and Age on Inpatient Rehabilitation Outcomes Among Older Adults With Traumatic Brain Injury

Graham JE, Radice-Neumann DM, Reistetter TA, Hammond FM, Dijkers M, Granger CV. Influence of sex and age on inpatient rehabilitation outcomes among older adults with traumatic brain injury.

Objective

To assess the influence of sex and age on inpatient rehabilitation outcomes in a large national sample of older adults with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Design

Prospective case series.

Setting

Eight hundred forty-eight inpatient rehabilitation facilities that subscribe to the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation.

Participants

Patients (n=18,413) age 65 years and older admitted for inpatient rehabilitation after TBI from 2005 through 2007.

Interventions

None.

Main Outcome Measures

Rehabilitation length of stay, discharge FIM motor and cognitive ratings, discharge setting, and scheduled home health services at discharge.

Results

Mean age ± SD of the sample was 79±7 years, and 47% were women. In multivariable models, higher age was associated with shorter lengths of stay (P<.001), lower discharge FIM motor and cognitive ratings (P<.001), and greater odds of home health services at discharge (P<.001). Women demonstrated shorter lengths of stay (P=.006) and greater odds of being scheduled for home health services at discharge (P<.001) than men. The sex-by-age interaction term was not significant in any outcome model. Sex differences and trends were consistent across the entire age range of the sample.

Conclusions

Sex and age patterns in rehabilitation outcomes among older adults with TBI varied by outcome. The current findings related to rehabilitation length of stay may be helpful for facility-level resource planning. Additional studies are warranted to identify the factors associated with returning to home and to assess the long-term benefits of combined inpatient rehabilitation and home health services for older adults with TBI.     

Validation of the Music Therapy Assessment Tool for Awareness in Disorders of Consciousness With the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised

ObjectiveTo examine (1) the concurrent validity of the Music Therapy Assessment Tool for Awareness in Disorders of Consciousness (MATADOC) with the criterion standard Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R) for outcomes of awareness in patients with prolonged disorders of consciousness (PDoC), (2) the relationship between MATADOC items and CRS-R function subscales in similar domains, and (3) determine if items/function subscales measure different constructs.DesignA prospective multicentric blinded study with repeated concurrent measures.SettingThree inpatient rehabilitation units.ParticipantsConvenience sample of 74 adults with PDoC (N=74).Main Outcome MeasuresThe MATADOC protocol elicits behavioral responsiveness using live music in 5 tasks. A total score ranges 0-10 scoring behaviors across 14-items. The CRS-R uses a language-based protocol and scores observed responses ranging from 0-23 in 6 function subscales. Both measures were delivered at 4 concurrent time points over 2 weeks.ResultsFair (κ=0.238, P=.006) ranging to moderate (κ=0.419, P<.001) significant agreement was found between CRS-R and MATADOC diagnostic outcomes. Fair-borderline moderate significant agreement was found for overall diagnostic outcomes across all diagnostic categories (κ=0.397, P=.001). There was moderate significant agreement between measures for motor scores (0.551≤κ≤0.571, P<.001) and visual outcomes (0.192≤κ≤0.415, .001≤P<.005) but no agreement for item/function subscale outcomes assessing auditory responsiveness. Exploratory factor analysis of all items showed 2 factors, suggesting that MATADOC and CRS-R measure the same underlying latent variable (awareness) in different ways and could complement each other for diagnosis and intervention purposes. This was supported by scale analysis, which showed increased reliability when the 2 scales are used together rather than separately.ConclusionsUnlike the CRS-R, the music-based MATADOC scores auditory localization for complexity of response and categorizes these behaviors as conscious rather than reflexive. The MATADOC may supplement the CRS-R, having a particular role in interdisciplinary programming for providing a more robust assessment of auditory responsiveness because of using nonverbal musical stimuli.     

The effect of rehabilitation in a comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation unit on mobility outcome after dysvascular lower extremity amputation

Czerniecki JM, Turner AP, Williams RM, Hakimi KN, Norvell DC. The effect of rehabilitation in a comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation unit on mobility outcome after dysvascular lower extremity amputation.ObjectivesTo (1) compare the total volume of rehabilitation therapy for patients ever attending a comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation unit (CIRU) versus never during the 12 months after amputation; (2) determine whether rehabilitation in a CIRU at any time in the first year after amputation results in greater mobility success compared with other types of rehabilitation environments of care; and (3) determine for those patients treated in a CIRU, which specific patient characteristics were associated with improved mobility outcome.DesignProspective cohort study.SettingTwo Veterans Affairs medical centers.ParticipantsPatients (N=199) with peripheral vascular disease or diabetes undergoing a first unilateral major amputation were screened for participation between September 2005 and December 2008. Among these, 113 (57%) met study criteria; of these, 72 (64%) participated.InterventionEver attending a CIRU versus never attending a CIRU in first 12 months after amputation.Main Outcome MeasuresNumber of rehabilitation therapy visits, Locomotor Capability Index scores, and mobility success.ResultsThe mean number of all therapy visits for patients ever attending a CIRU was significantly greater than that for those never attending over a 12-month period (48.6 vs 22.6; P=.001). Mean total time per any rehabilitation visit was .83±.27 hours for those ever attending and .60±.20 hours for those never attending (P<.001). Patients who ever were treated in a CIRU were 17% more likely to achieve mobility success than those who were not, controlling for amputation level, major depressive episode, alcohol use, social support, total number of rehabilitation visits, and hospital site (risk difference=.17; 95% confidence interval, .09–.25; P<.001).ConclusionsRehabilitation in a CIRU resulted in improved mobility success for veterans undergoing major lower extremity amputation secondary to peripheral vascular disease or diabetes. Among those admitted to a CIRU, younger patients with greater social support, healthy weight, and without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease had the greatest probability of mobility success.     

Examination of the Relationships Among Social Networks and Loneliness on Health and Life Satisfaction in People with Spinal Cord Injury/Dysfunction

ObjectiveTo examine the associations among social networks and loneliness on health and life satisfaction in adults with chronic spinal cord injury/dysfunction (SCI/D).DesignCross-sectional telephone survey study.SettingTertiary spinal cord injury rehabilitation center in Ontario, Canada.ParticipantsCommunity-dwelling adults with chronic SCI/D (N=170).InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresThe main outcome measures were the Short-Form 36 to assess health and the Life Satisfaction-11 to assess life satisfaction.ResultsA hierarchical regression model predicting physical health accounted for 24% (P<.001) of the variance. The only social network variable to significantly contribute to the model was having a higher proportion of network members living in one's household (P<.05). A model predicting mental health accounted for 44% (P<.001) of the variance, with having a higher proportion of network members living in one's household (P<.05) and lower feelings of loneliness (P<.001) associated with better mental health. Finally, the model predicting life satisfaction accounted for 62% (P<.001) of the variance, with lower greater levels of social network intimacy (P<.01) and lower feelings of loneliness (P<.001) being significant predictors.ConclusionsThese findings highlight the importance of having access to network members in one's home for better physical and mental health after SCI/D as well as the negative association between loneliness and mental health and life satisfaction. There is a need for approaches to ensure that people with SCI/D in the community feel supported to mitigate feelings of loneliness to optimize their health and wellbeing.     

Intrathecal and Oral Baclofen Use in Adults With Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review of Efficacy in Spasticity Reduction,Functional Changes,Dosing, and Adverse Events

ObjectiveTo examine the efficacy, dosing, and safety profiles of intrathecal and oral baclofen in treating spasticity after spinal cord injury (SCI).Data SourcesPubMed and Cochrane Databases were searched from 1970-2018 with keywords baclofen, spinal cord injury, and efficacy.Study SelectionThe database search yielded 588 sources and 10 additional relevant publications. After removal of duplicates, 398 publications were screened.Data ExtractionData were extracted using the following population, intervention, comparator, outcomes, and study designs criteria: studies including adult patients with SCI with spasticity; the intervention could be oral or intrathecal administration of baclofen; selection was inclusive for control groups, surgical management, rehabilitation, and alternative pharmaceutical agents; outcomes were efficacy, dosing, and adverse events. Randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and case reports were included. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews were excluded.Data SynthesisA total of 98 studies were included with 1943 patients. Only 4 randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled trials were reported. Thirty-nine studies examined changes in the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS; 34 studies) and Penn Spasm scores (Penn Spasm Frequency; 19 studies), with average reductions of 1.7±1.3 and 1.6±1.4 in individuals with SCI, respectively. Of these data, a total of 6 of the 34 studies (MAS) and 2 of the 19 studies (Penn Spasm Frequency) analyzed oral baclofen. Forty-three studies addressed adverse events with muscle weakness and fatigue frequently reported.ConclusionsBaclofen is the most commonly-prescribed antispasmodic after SCI. Surprisingly, there remains a significant lack of large, placebo-controlled, double-blinded clinical trials, with most efficacy data arising from small studies examining treatment across different etiologies. In the studies reviewed, baclofen effectively improved spasticity outcome measures, with increased efficacy through intrathecal administration. Few studies assessed how reduced neural excitability affected residual motor function and activities of daily living. A host of adverse events were reported that may negatively affect quality of life. Comparative randomized controlled trials of baclofen and alternative treatments are warranted because these have demonstrated promise in relieving spasticity with reduced adverse events and without negatively affecting residual motor function.     

Progress assessed with the Mayo-Portland Adaptability Inventory in 604 participants in 4 types of post-inpatient rehabilitation brain injury programs

Eicher V, Murphy MP, Murphy TF, Malec JF. Progress assessed with the Mayo-Portland Adaptability Inventory in 604 participants in 4 types of post–inpatient rehabilitation brain injury programs.ObjectiveTo compare progress in 4 types of post–inpatient rehabilitation brain injury programs.DesignQuasiexperimental observational cohort study.SettingCommunity and residential.ParticipantsIndividuals (N=604) with acquired brain injury.InterventionsFour program types within the Pennsylvania Association of Rehabilitation Facilities were compared: intensive outpatient and community-based rehabilitation (IRC; n=235), intensive residential rehabilitation (IRR; n=78), long-term residential supported living (SLR; n=246), and long-term community-based supported living (SLC; n=45). With the use of a commercial web-based data management system developed with federal grant support, progress was examined on 2 consecutive assessments.Main Outcome MeasureMayo-Portland Adaptability Inventory (MPAI-4).ResultsProgram types differed in participant age (F=10.69, P<.001), sex (χ²=22.38, P<.001), time from first to second assessment (F=20.71, P<.001), initial MPAI-4 score (F=6.89, P<.001), and chronicity (F=13.43, P<.001). However, only initial MPAI-4 score and chronicity were significantly associated with the second MPAI-4 rating. On average, SLR participants were 9.1 years postinjury compared with 5.1 years for IRR, 6.0 years for IRC, and 6.8 years for SLC programs. IRR participants were more severely disabled per MPAI-4 total score on admission than the other groups. Controlling for these variables, program types varied significantly on second MPAI-4 total score (F=5.14, P=.002). Both the IRR and IRC programs resulted in significant functional improvement across assessments. In contrast, both the SLR and SLC programs demonstrated relatively stable MPAI-4 scores.ConclusionsResults are consistent with stated goals of the programs; that is, intensive programs resulted in functional improvements, whereas supported living programs produced stable functioning. Further studies using data from this large, multiprovider measurement collaboration will potentially provide the foundation for developing outcome expectations for various types of postacute brain injury programs.     

Factor Structure and Predictive Validity of Somatic and Nonsomatic Symptoms From the Patient Health Questionnaire-9: A Longitudinal Study After Spinal Cord Injury

Krause JS, Reed KS, McArdle JJ. Factor structure and predictive validity of somatic and nonsomatic symptoms from the Patient Health Questionnaire-9: a longitudinal study after spinal cord injury.

Objective

To investigate the factor structure and predictive validity of somatic and nonsomatic depressive symptoms over the first 2.5 years after spinal cord injury (SCI) using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9).

Design

Somatic and nonsomatic symptoms were assessed at baseline during inpatient hospitalization (average of 50 days after onset) and during 2 follow-ups (average of 498 and 874 days after onset).

Setting

Data were collected at a specialty hospital in the Southeastern United States and analyzed at a medical university. We performed time-lag regression between inpatient baseline and follow-up somatic and nonsomatic latent factors of the PHQ-9.

Participants

Adults with traumatic SCI (N=584) entered the study during inpatient rehabilitation.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure

PHQ-9, a 9-item measure of depressive symptoms.

Results

The inpatient baseline nonsomatic latent factor was significantly predictive of the nonsomatic (r=.40; P=.000) and somatic latent factors at the second follow-up (r=.29; P=.006), whereas the somatic factor at inpatient baseline did not significantly predict either factor. In contrast, when regressing latent factors between the 2 follow-ups, the nonsomatic factor predicted only the nonsomatic factor (r=.66; P=.002), and the somatic factor predicted only future somatic symptoms (r=.66; P=.000). In addition, the factor structure was not stable over time. Item analysis verified the instability of somatic items between inpatient baseline and follow-up and also indicated that self-harm at inpatient baseline was highly predictive of future self-harm.

Conclusions

Nonsomatic symptoms are better predictors of future depressive symptoms when first assessed during inpatient rehabilitation, whereas somatic symptoms become stable predictors only after inpatient rehabilitation. Self-harm (suicidal ideation) is the most stable symptom over time. Clinicians should routinely assess for suicidal ideation and use nonsomatic symptoms when performing assessments during inpatient rehabilitation.