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Timing of Surgical Intervention for Traumatic Spinal Injury and Its Association With 30-Day Functional Outcomes: A Single-Center Retrospective Study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The optimal timing of surgical intervention after traumatic spinal injury (TSI) remains uncertain, particularly with respect to patients with less severe injuries.We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study of patients who underwent surgical fixation for traumatic spinal injury at a single medical center to evaluate the association between timing of surgery and short-term functional outcomes.Patients were categorized based on whether surgery occurred within 24 hours of hospital presentation.Functional outcomes were assessed using the Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 30 days after surgical fixation, with an mRS score of ≤2 defined as a favorable functional outcome and an mRS score of ≥3 defined as an unfavorable functional outcome.In our cohort, predominantly composed of patients with American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) D or E injuries, surgical intervention within 24 hours was not significantly associated with improved functional outcomes.Younger age and less severe ASIA scores were significantly associated with better recovery.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.118854

Authors: James Garda, Manu Nair, Michael Hofkamp, Awais Z Vance

Institution: Baylor College of Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Spinal Fractures and Fixation Techniques

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7224737695