SCI_Flashcards_Brainscape
What is tetraplegia/quadriplegia?
It is a spinal cord injury above the first thoracic vertebra resulting in partial or complete loss of movement and sensation in all four limbs, along with weakened breathing and coughing.
What distinguishes paraplegia from tetraplegia?
Paraplegia occurs below the first thoracic spinal nerve, affecting the trunk and lower limbs but preserving arm function.
Define a complete vs. an incomplete spinal cord injury.
A complete injury results in total loss of sensory and motor function below the injury level, while an incomplete injury allows some sensory and motor function.
What are the characteristics of upper motor neuron (UMN) lesions?
They involve hyper-reflexia, spasms, and increased muscle tone due to intact reflex arcs.
How do lower motor neuron (LMN) lesions present?
They involve flaccid paralysis, no spasms, and absent reflexes due to disrupted reflex arcs.
What is anterior cord syndrome?
It is damage to the anterior spinal cord affecting motor function, pain, and temperature sensation, sparing proprioception and vibration.
What are the effects of central cord syndrome?
It predominantly affects the hands, arms, and trunk due to central damage to the spinal cord, sparing the legs.
What is autonomic dysreflexia, and what level of injury can lead to it?
It is a dangerous condition of excessive sympathetic response (high BP), occurring in spinal injuries at or above T6.
Name three symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia.
Pounding headache, sweating above the injury, and slow pulse (<60 bpm).
How does spasticity in SCI patients present, and what are its benefits?
It manifests as increased muscle tone and spasms but helps maintain muscle size, circulation, and can aid functional activities like transfers.
What are the primary risks of developing pressure sores in SCI patients?
Reduced sensation, muscle wasting, poor posture, and incontinence issues.
What factors contribute to respiratory complications in SCI patients?
Paralysis of intercostal and abdominal muscles, reduced diaphragm function, prolonged bed rest, and associated injuries like rib fractures.
What causes heterotopic ossification in SCI, and how is it managed?
Caused by abnormal bone growth outside the skeleton, typically near large joints, and managed with physical therapy or surgical release.
What are the common signs and symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) in SCI patients?
Frequent urination, burning sensation during voiding, fever, chills, cloudy or strong-smelling urine.
What is syringomyelia, and how can it affect an SCI patient?
It is the enlargement of the spinal cord’s central canal and can cause numbness and weakness above the original injury level.
