Prevention of recurrent autonomic dysreflexia: a survey of current practice.

OBJECTIVE

There is a dearth of literature on the treatment of chronic recurrent autonomic dysreflexia (AD), a well-known complication of spinal cord injury that can have life-threatening implications. This study sought to identify clinical practices regarding the treatment of AD, both acute and recurrent, in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).

METHODS

Online survey regarding AD management in SCI composed of 11 questions designed to obtain information on respondent characteristics, AD treatment options, and causes of AD.

SETTING

Veterans Administration health care system.

PARTICIPANTS

Veterans Health Administration National SCI Staff Physicians were sent an electronic email to participate in the anonymous web-based survey.

INTERVENTION

None applicable.

RESULTS

The response rate was 52%. The most commonly prescribed medications for minor and severe acute manifestations of AD were nitrates. For recurrent AD, clonidine was the most commonly prescribed medication.

INTERPRETATION

Anti-hypertensive medications continue to be the mainstay in the management of both acute and chronic recurrent AD. Current literature is lacking in prospective randomized controlled trials investigating the relative efficacy of AD interventions. Evidence-based practice guidelines are necessary to improve clinical care.