The Frankel classification was published in 1969 and serves to classify spinal cord injuries into four different grades[^1].
Classification
Frankel Grade | Degree of Paralysis | Description |
Grade A | Complete | Complete motor and sensory paralysis. |
Grade B | Only Sensory Intact | Complete motor paralysis with partially retained sensitivity below the lesion level. |
Grade C | Severe Incomplete Motor Paralysis | Some motor function is retained below the lesion level, but is not sufficient for practical use by the patient. |
Grade D | Incomplete Motor Paralysis | This grade implies that there is an incomplete paralysis of motor function below the lesion level. Patients in this group could move the lower limb. Many of them could walk with or without assistance. |
Grade E | Neurologically Intact | No neurological deficits. However, abnormal reflexes may occur in this group. |