Question
Hi John,
  I have heard about using methylprednisolone right after a spinal cord injury.  However, this is for a non-penetrating injury.

  Why is it not used for penetrating injury (gun shot wound)?  Is it because of risk of sepsis?  

  I couldn't find the answer on the internet but I'm sure there are people who know the answer.

Answer
Hi Derek,
Thanks so much for your question.

It'a probably because the spinal cord doesn't regenerate. The cord is made up of many strands, like a rope. When the cord is damaged [partially or totally severed], the strands are unable to regenerate and re-connect

Only the nerves will regenerate when they are damaged. But, sometimes the damage is too severe and the nerve can't re-attach itself to the cord.

Much of the research being done now is looking for ways to re-attach [or regenerate the strands of] the cord or bypass the injured cord area with nerves.

I hope this helps and if you have any more questions, please feel free to ask me anytime.

Thanks again,
John McKinzie