Traumatic SCI result in a multisystem physiological impairment and malfunction that renders the patient at risk of a wide range of complications which can significantly add to the level of disability, psychological, social, financial and vocational burden of the patient and family members. Some complications can cause further neurological loss, delays in recovery or prevent recovery.
The impairment /loss of normal sensation below the level of injury imposes significant diagnostic challenges to clinicians. With adequate physiological management of the injured spine, the multisystem malfunction and the non-medical effects of cord damage as well as adequate support and education of patients and family members, many patients recover neurological functions and the majority of patients can live healthy, enjoyable, productive, dignified and often competitive life.
The prognostic indicators of neurological recovery, and the role of surgery will be discussed

• Detailed Knowledge of the effects of traumatic spinal cord damage
• Better understanding of the principles, difficulties and model of service delivery to obtain optimum outcomes
• Awareness of the potential for neurological recovery
• Factors that enhance neurological recovery and prevent it
• The role of surgery in the management of patients with TSCI