Cauda Equina Injury Flashcards
1
Q
Definition
A
PNS disorder
Compromised integrity of the cauda equina (anywhere below T10/L2 - spinal cord stops)
Extent of the injury at the level can vary - complete or incomplete
2
Q
Aetiology (Cause)
A
Traumatic: MVA, MBA -> fracture of the vertebral column
Atraumatic: degeneration of the vertebral column
3
Q
How is it diagnosed?
A
Clinical Ax: motor and sensory (ISNCSCI)
Scans
4
Q
Sub-classifications
A
Neurological level (e.g. L3)
Severity of injury at level - A-E scale (A= complete, E = able-bodied)
Paraplegia - lumbar and sacral SCI -> lower limbs only
5
Q
Which limbs are affected?
A
Lower limbs
6
Q
PNS or CNS
A
PNS
7
Q
UMN or LMN
A
LMN
8
Q
Problems
A
Bilateral
Sensory
- somatosensory
Motor
- paresis
- abnormal muscle tone: hypotonia
- abnormal muscle reflexes: hyporeflexia
9
Q
Management
A
conservative and/or surgical
