Research on spinal cord injury treatment enters second phase

Often caused by whiplash from vehicular accidents, an injured spine is often associated with numerous complications. In New Haven, Connecticut, most spinal cord injury victims have sustained a weakened immune system, paralysis and bladder problems. As a result, the many of these victims are left debilitated, relying on their loved ones’ care.

Several medical professionals across the country are conducting a number of studies that aim to find a breakthrough to help spinal cord injury victims. One group, which conducted a study at Emory University Hospital, has announced recent findings. According to the findings, the first patient is in the second phase of a trial using NSI-566 neural stem cells derived from a spinal cord. This is used to treat a condition called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s disease.

The second phase escalation and trial, which focuses on safety, is intended to treat up to 15 people at five different dosages. First, 12 patients will only receive injections in the cervical region of their spinal cord. The other three will be injected in both lumbar and cervical regions. The dosage will increase in both number of cells per injection and number of injections throughout the trial.

This research aims to help a large number of spinal cord injury victims in the U.S., including those who live in New Haven, Connecticut. According to researchers, they are focusing on where they believe they can have the most significant contribution to the victim’s quality of life and longevity. However, readers should be reminded that treatment for spinal cord injury is often costly.

In many cases, the spinal cord injury victim has limited financial capabilities to cover spinal cord injury treatment. Fortunately, in New Haven, Connecticut, personal injury victims can receive compensation through a lawsuit. Compensation from the negligent party, if negligence can be proved, can help pay medical costs and other expenses resulting from injuries.

Source: Nasdaq, “Neuralstem: First patient treated in Phase II of ALS stem cell trial,” Sept. 10, 2013