University of Pittsburgh Model Center on Spinal Cord Injury – UMPC Rehabilitation Institute, Pittsburgh, PA

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The National Institute on Disability Rehabilitation and Research (NIDRR) has identified eighteen hospitals across the United States as Spinal Cord Injury Model System Hospitals. These institutions offer exceptional "systems of care" that integrate the latest research and education findings into spinal cord injury treatment and rehabilitation.

Spinal Cord Injury Model System Hospitals are at the forefront of cutting-edge research aimed at developing innovative treatments and evaluating service delivery for comprehensive spinal cord injury medical care. Their innovations span from new clinical interventions and pharmaceutical treatments to experimental interventions like stem cell implantation and electrical stimulation. Additionally, they focus on developing assistive technology such as voice-recognition and computer adaptations, as well as manual and electric wheelchairs designed to minimize pressure sores and reduce contractures. Other advancements include robotics, like exoskeleton mobility devices, and artificial intelligence to enhance communication and promote independence, ultimately enhancing quality of life.

These hospitals also conduct various clinical trials and interventional studies to test new drugs, medical devices, and clinical procedures aimed at improving functionality and daily living for individuals with spinal cord injuries. Information on these activities, as well as how to participate in spinal cord clinical study registries to stay informed about new studies and research findings, is provided below. Additionally, eligibility criteria for clinical trial participants are outlined for those interested in participating.

University of Pittsburgh Model Center on Spinal Cord Injury – UMPC Rehabilitation Institute, Pittsburgh, PA The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) on Spinal Cord Injury provides comprehensive team-based treatment by physicians, therapist, and vocational rehabilitation specialists. This facility is heavily involved in spinal cord injury research, with in-depth investigation on assistive technology and care and treatment of spinal cord injuries to enhance quality of life. The Center also contributes to the assessment of life-long outcomes of individuals with spinal cord injury through enrollment of participants in the National Spinal Cord Injury Database. Fact sheets to support Living with SCI are provided from the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center as well as other scholarly and consumer publications.