Physiatrists’ Professional Opinions of Secondary Complications After SCI

The professional opinions of physiatrists were collected to ascertain the likelihood of occurrence, frequency of hospitalization, and treatment required as a direct result of 13 secondary complications (SCs) of two otherwise healthy males in their mid-20s, one with a C5-C6 tetraplegia and the other with T6 paraplegia spinal cord injury. Physiatrists responded to our online survey and overall, a general consensus was found among practitioners. Descriptive statistics was implemented with details outlining the frequency, mean, standard deviations, and the probability (51% or greater) versus possibility (50% or less) of SC occurrence is provided. Implications for life care planners and recommendations for future research are discussed.