Neurologic evaluation in thoracolumbar vertebral fractures
Barneschi, G.; D'Andrea, M.; Pratelli, R.; Lucchesi, G.; Pratelli, E.
La Chirurgia Degli Organi di Movimento 85(2): 101-119
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 0009-4749 PMID: 11569047 Document Number: 524606
A standardized and universal neurologic evaluation is of essential importance in defining the prognosis, treatment, and long-term results in patients with spinal cord injury. The American Spinal Injury Association was the first to publish a neurologic classification in 1992. This classification, which was subsequently submitted to numerous revisions, was also adopted by the International Medical Society of Paraplegia and by the national scientific associations of many other countries. In Italy, too, the ASIA/IMSOP form has been accepted as a standard for neurologic evaluation, but with the exception of specialized centers, it is still not well-known. The authors critically analyze the international terminology and its translation, they define the technical aspects of the neurologic examination in relation to priorities, and to the specific goals. Finally, they report several thoughts deriving from clinical practice in the Spinal Unit of Florence.