Epidural Decompression Surgery Within 24 Hours After Acute Spinal Cord Injury Improves Spinal Nerve Function

About this trial

This is a trial enrolling individuals with acute spinal cord injury to test the effect of early and delayed decompression surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Following spinal cord injury, there is often pressure on the spinal cord from structures (vertebra – the bones around the spinal cord, discs, and ligaments) that may have been displaced or broken as result of trauma.  Researchers want to see whether the timing of this procedure has an effect on recovery (strength and sensation). If included, participants will be assigned to early (within 24 hours after SCI) or late (exceeding 24 hours after SCI) epidural decompression surgery. The participant will be monitored for 6 months after the surgery.