Spinal Cord Injury ASIA Scale

Question 1

Expectations for all levels of SCI

Answer 1

• Upright tolerance: 10 to 12 hours
• Utilize appropriate seating system to support posture and maximize function
• Utilize appropriate mobility device(s) to maximize functional mobility and independence
• Maintain intact skin
• Patients are independent in verbalization for all assistance needed with ADLs and mobility
• Patient/caregiver becomes independent in all aspects of care
• Body habitus is important for all levels of injury

Question 2

What ASIA scale grading level does compensation versus recovery/resuscitation

Answer 2

• Compensation: motor complete; ASI A & B
• Recovery/Resuscitation: Motor incomplete; AIS c & D

Question 3

Describe the predictions for functional walking for each of the ASIA grading scale

Answer 3

• AIS A: Initial neurologic eval completed within first 72 hrs post injury; 80% remain complete; 10% convert to AIS B; 10% convert to AIS C
• AIS B: about 33% expected to recover some walking function (exam at 72 hrs post injury); Pinprick preservation may demonstrate better walking recovery, sparing of motor tracts
• AIS C: about 75% expected to recover some walking function (exam at 72 hrs post injury); Does not account for using lower extremity bracing and assistive devices
• AIS D: ~ 100% expected to recover some walking function (exam at 72 hrs post injury)

Question 4

Ambulation expectations of incomplete SCI patients with LE Motor Score (LEMS) ≤20 and ≥30

Answer 4

• LEMS ≤20: Limited ambulators, slow walking velocities, higher heart rates, and higher energy expenditure
• LEMS ≥30: community ambulators

Question 5

Look at powerpoint for all of the charts