After the surgery, the rats were observed and graded on their recovery, using molecular and functional tests to observe the animals on both levels. Results found a statistically significant recovery in the 5mL/kg Oxycyte animals in comparison to its peers. Though, of more interest is the potential use of combinational therapy with Oxycyte that could work synergistically and reduce the inflammatory response after SCI. Another molecule of interest is one that could deliver oxygen as a second line, by binding to hemoglobin, while being less invasive on the human body. More research of these two ideas is being looked into further.
Introduction:
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is one of the most disabling conditions, physically and emotionally, having an impact on the individual and the individual’s family as well. It is a disturbance that affects the ambulatory movement of the patient, along with a life-long chronic pain, and a negative impact on the quality of life of the patient (Bunge et al. 1993). According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical