Pathophysiologic Mechanisms of Severe Spinal Cord Injury and Neuroplasticity Following Decompressive Laminectomy and Expansive Duraplasty: A Systematic Review

Authors:
Preprint
Publisher website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Background Severe spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a debilitating condition with long-term physical and socioeconomic impacts. Understanding the pathophysiology of SCI and therapeutic interventions such as decompressive laminectomy and expansive duraplasty is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes. Objective This systematic review explores the pathophysiology of SCI and evaluates evidence linking decompressive laminectomy and duraplasty to improved neuroplasticity and recovery. Methods A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for studies on decompressive surgery in SCI. Inclusion criteria were original articles investigating pathophysiology, neuroplasticity mechanisms, or surgical outcomes. Data on pathophysiological changes, molecular markers, and functional outcomes were extracted. Results From 1,240 initial articles, 43 studies were included, encompassing both animal models and human clinical data. Findings highlighted the role of inflammatory cascades, blood-spinal cord barrier disruption, and neurotrophic factor modulation in recovery. Decompressive duraplasty was associated with improved intrathecal pressure (ITP) management and neuroplasticity markers, such as BDNF and GAP-43. Conclusions This review underscores the therapeutic potential of decompressive laminectomy and duraplasty in SCI. While evidence suggests benefits in promoting neuroplasticity, further research is needed to elucidate molecular mechanisms and refine interventions.

This publication has 31 references indexed in Scilit: