UNASSIGNED: Introduction to a
guidelines project.
UNASSIGNED: The objective of this focus issue is to present guidelines that outline how to best manage patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy (
DCM) and spinal cord injury (SCI). Topics addressed in this focus issue include: 1) management strategies for patients with mild, moderate and severe
DCM; and 2a) timing of surgical decompression; b) the use of methylprednisolone sodium succinate; c) the type and timing of anticoagulation strategies; d) the role of magnetic resonance imaging in clinical decision making and outcome prediction; and e) the type and timing of rehabilitation in patients with SCI.
UNASSIGNED: Systematic reviews were conducted to address key clinical questions and to synthesize the current body of evidence. A multidisciplinary
guideline development group used the results of these reviews, along with their clinical expertise, to develop clinical practice guidelines, in a process that adhered to methodology proposed by the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Working Group.
UNASSIGNED: The multidisciplinary
guideline development group combined the systematic review findings with their clinical expertise and opinions to formulate recommendations on how to manage patients with DCM and SCI.
UNASSIGNED: These guidelines will serve as tools to assist clinicians in their decision making by offering a perspective that combines the available evidence, expertise from a variety of clinicians, and patient values.