Respiratory problems and management in people with spinal cord injury

AuthorsBerlowitz, DJ.
Wadsworth, B.
Ross, J.
TypeJournal Article (Original Research)
JournalBreathe
Year of Publication2016
URLhttp://breathe.ersjournals.com/content/12/4/328
DOIhttp://dx.doi.org/10.1183/20734735.012616
Download 2016_Dec_Breathe_Respiratory_Problems_Berlowitz.pdf (325.4 KB)
AbstractSpinal cord injury (SCI) is characterised by profound respiratory compromise secondary to the level of loss of motor, sensory and autonomic control associated with the injury. This review aims to detail these anatomical and physiological changes after SCI, and outline their impact on respiratory function. Injury-related impairments in strength substantially alter pulmonary mechanics, which in turn affect respiratory management and care. Options for treatments must therefore be considered in light of these limitations.Key pointsRespiratory impairment following spinal cord injury (SCI) is more severe in high cervical injuries, and is characterised by low lung volumes and a weak cough secondary to respiratory muscle weakness.Autonomic dysfunction and early-onset sleep disordered breathing compound this respiratory compromise.The mainstays of management following acute high cervical SCI are tracheostomy and ventilation, with noninvasive ventilation and assisted coughing techniques being important in lower cervical and thoracic level injuries.Prompt investigation to ascertain the extent of the SCI and associated injuries, and appropriate subsequent management are important to improve outcomes.Educational aimsTo describe the anatomical and physiological changes after SCI and their impact on respiratory function.To describe the changes in respiratory mechanics seen in cervical SCI and how these changes affect treatments.To discuss the relationship between injury level and respiratory compromise following SCI, and describe those at increased risk of respiratory complications.To present the current treatment options available and their supporting evidence.Spinal cord injury impairs respiratory function. The associated impairments can be well managed.

http://www.ibas.org.au/what-we-do/publications/3872884


< More publications



ARIELARIEL

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a chronic lung condition that causes stiff lungs and restricts sufferers from taking a deep breath. Exercise in a gym, or swimming, walking or riding a bike, can help...

Shift work and breastfeeding projectSHIFT WORK AND BREASTFEEDING PROJECT

Researchers at Austin Health are looking for volunteers to participate in a study exploring the impact shift work has on breast milk composition. Participants will be compensated with a $100 gift voucher.

Notch monitoring in sleepNOTCH MONITORING IN SLEEP

Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing is abnormal during sleep. There are two main forms of sleep apnea: obstructive and central. For obstructive sleep apnea, breathing is reduced because the airway...

A/Prof Mark Howard Awarded Major Competitive MRFF GrantA/PROF MARK HOWARD AWARDED MAJOR COMPETITIVE MRFF GRANT

IBAS leads project to revolutionize Home Ventilation with $1.2 million grant for Assoc. Prof Mark Howard's research titled "Synchronise non-invasive ventilation at home".

Prof Anne Holland receives prestigious Research AwardPROF ANNE HOLLAND RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS RESEARCH AWARD

Prof Anne Holland receives prestigious award for Excellent in Research Engagement and Impact from Monash University.

World Sleep Day on 17th March 2023WORLD SLEEP DAY ON 17TH MARCH 2023

The benefits of quality sleep and to acknowledge the issue of sleep problems and their medical, educational, and social aspects as well as the prevention and management of sleep disorders, is promoted on World Sleep Day on the 17th March 2023.

A/Prof Mark Howard is listed in 'the Australian'A/PROF MARK HOWARD IS LISTED IN 'THE AUSTRALIAN'

The Australian's Research magazine names the top researcher and top research institution in each field of research, based on the number of citations for papers published in the top 20 journals in each field over the past five years.

Institute for Breathing and Sleep

Level 5, Harold Stokes Building, Austin Health
145 Studley Road
Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084

(03) 9496 5390

Email Us

Donate