Prevalence of autonomic dysreflexia during spinal cord stimulation after spinal cord injury

Spinal cord stimulation for motor recovery after spinal cord injury is a popular research intervention, though off-target effects are a concern. Using continual blood pressure and heart rate recordings during passive spinal cord stimulation parameter testing, we identified frequent episodes of autonomic dysreflexia that were rarely associated with symptoms. This presents a previously unrecognized risk of spinal cord stimulation and appropriate vigilance in targeted monitoring is urged to maintain participant safety.