SCI

Question 1

What is a SCI?

Answer 1

Complete - complete loss of neural function below level of lesion. Outcome more predictable.

Incomplete - some neural sparing below level of lesion. Outcome less predictable.

Question 2

SCI Lesions

Answer 2

Traumatic - Assault, road accidents, sports injuries, domestic

Non-traumatic - tumour, degenerative disc disease, viral infection, inflammation of SC

Question 3

Tetraplegia and Paraplegia

Answer 3

Tetra/Quadraplegia - Impairment or loss of sensory and/or motor function of all four limbs.

Paraplegia - can be a loss or impairment of sensory/motor function of legs, pelvis and trunk.

Question 4

Types of incomplete SCI

Answer 4

Anterior Cord Syndrome - Motor paralysis below lesion. Loss of pain and temp.

Central Cord Syndrome - Motor dysfunction in upper limbs

Brown-Sequard - Loss of Motor and touch sensations on the side of lesion, loss of pain and temp on the opposite side

Cauda equina syndrome - Loss of sensory function below lesion

Question 5

How to classify a SCI?

Answer 5

ASIA Scale

A (complete) - No motor or sensory function in the sacral segments
B (incomplete) - No motor function in the sacral segments
C (incomplete) - Motor function preserved below neurological level and more than half of key muscles have LESS than a grade 3
D (incomplete) - Motor function preserved below neurological level and more than half of key muscles have MORE than a grade 3
E (Normal)