The purpose of this web application is twofold: First, EMSCI uses this application as a check for internal quality control. Second, it is intended to train an individual's ISNCSCI classification skill by comparing the classification results of this computer algorithm with the manual classification made by an examiner. We encourage everybody to perform classifications manually and afterwards use this application for educational purposes and quality control.
Ideally, an ISNCSCI examiner is performing a preliminary manual classification at the conclusion of the examination. This helps to avoid misclassification of non SCI-related issues above the level of injury and to identify the most crucial dermatomes and myotomes for classification. The latter include those segments, where motor function is preserved more than three levels below the motor level, which is important for the accurate classification of AIS B versus an AIS C/D. As a consequence, the examiner can focus on these dermatomes and myotomes to ensure conclusive scoring results. Relying exclusively on computer classification skills might result in a loss of very important diagnostic skills.
This ISNCSCI calculator has been developed within the framework of the European Multicenter Study on Human Spinal Cord Injury (EMSCI). EMSCI is an internationally recognized scientific and clinical spinal cord injury network, which was initiated in 2001 to provide the clinical basis for future interventional trials in SCI. Patients with a traumatic or ischemic SCI are documented in five distinct time frames within the first year after onset of SCI. Core assessments are ISNCSCI, the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) and walking tests [10 meter walk test, 6 minute walk test, timed up and go (TUG) test and the walking index for SCI (WISCI)].
Maintaining a high level of quality of ISNCSCI examinations and classifications is of utmost importance within networks like EMSCI. The idea to accurately classify ISNCSCI datasets by a computer program emerged from the ESMCI quality assurance initiative.
The computational ISNCSCI classification approach was one of the prerequisites for the successful ISO-9001 certification process performed on an annual basis since 2010.
The information provided on this web site is for educational and informational purposes only. You use this website and the information it provides on an "as is" basis. No representations or warranties are made as to its accuracy. This information should not be regarded as complete or a source of medical or diagnostic information or used as a substitute for clinical judgment of professional medical instruction.
This computer calculator application is designed to produce a spinal cord injury classification consistent with ISNCSCI as developed and copyrighted by ASIA. No representation or warranty with respect to the content is being made by ASIA. In no event shall EMSCI or ASIA be liable to you or any other entity for any direct, special, consequential, incidental, or indirect damages, liabilities, losses, costs, expenses, claims, fines, penalties, demands, or legal proceedings, however caused.
The calculator cannot produce conclusive results, if classification relevant information is placed into the comment box. This includes lesions with multiple spinal injury levels and non SCI-related impairments. In these cases the classification must be performed by a SCI professional. Please consult Kirshblum2014 et al. for guidelines regarding these issues.
You must respect all laws governing data protection, privacy and security of patient related data in your country. This includes the anonymity of any patient and examiner data and the appropriate uses of either a patient or examiner identifier. The owners and managers of this website and EMSCI are also not liable for any intentional or unintentional use of this calculator with identified patient data (see above paragraph).