Effects of restoration of cough via spinal cord stimulation on subject quality of life

To determine participant quality of life before and after use of the cough stimulation system (Cough System). Prospective assessment of life quality at 4 timepoints via questionnaire responses. Out-patient hospital, United States. 28 subjects with spinal cord injury (SCI) completed life quality assessment questionnaires before and at the 28- 40- and 52-week timepoints following use of the Cough System. Each subject demonstrated significant clinical improvements in terms of restoration of an effective cough and ability to manage airway secretions with use of the Cough System. Positive airway pressures and peak expiratory airflows approached values associated with a normal cough. Related to cough/secretion management, use of this system also resulted less interference with family life and daily activities, less financial difficulties, less requirement for caregiver assistance, less stress, less embarrassment and greater control of their breathing problems (p