When people in Georgia are involved in car accidents, their lives can change in the blink of an eye. Those who suffer serious injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, must not only deal with the short- and long-term effects of their injuries. They must also live with the potential complications.
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, people who suffer complete spinal cord injuries may experience some degree of improvement, but they typically do not regain the function they lost. Those with incomplete spinal cord injuries may see greater improvements with time; however, they too will not likely recover fully. Thus, acute treatment of such trauma is focused on immobilizing the spine to prevent further injury, as well as identifying and treating any other life-threatening issues.
Following a spinal cord injury, some people may require surgical intervention to address trauma to the chest, abdomen or another area. Surgeons may also perform procedures to help prevent future deformity or pain, as well as in cases when a blood clot, herniated disc or another type of lesion is compressing the spinal cord.
Once they are stabilized treatment of spinal cord injuries focuses on rehabilitation and supportive care. Patients may require physical therapy and occupational therapy, in addition to counseling. People who suffer spinal cord injuries often require hospitalization and, in some cases, they may transition to a rehabilitation facility before returning to their homes.
Those living with spinal cord injuries may experience a variety of complications due to their injuries and the associated effects. According to the Mayo Clinic, some of the most common secondary complications resulting from such trauma include urinary tract and kidney infections, kidney and bladder stones, pressure sores, blood clots, and pneumonia and other lung problems. These and other complications resulting from spinal cord injuries may require additional medical treatment and care.