[What are the causes of death in patients with spinal cord injury today?--a descriptive analysis of 102 cases].

As there are only few reliable data concerning mortality of SCI patients, this retrospective monocentric cohort study was carried out. Despite essential improvements in intensive medical care from the accident scene to clinic life, comprehensive rehabilitation, and implementation of a lifelong aftercare system, the life expectancy of SCI patients is still reduced. Especially patients with high tetraplegia die significantly earlier from pulmonary complications. The longer the onset of SCI is survived, the more patients die from age-related diseases. In old paraplegic patients, pressure sores are the only major SCI-related complication. Successful social reintegration and professional care are the most important factors for an expanded lifespan after occurrence of a SCI. Hence, the special impact of lifelong treatment of SCI patients ("comprehensive care") is confirmed.