Spinal cord injury

Question 1

List the different spinal injuries and their functional impact

Answer 1

Cord concussion - temp disruption of cord function
Cord contusion - Bruising of neural tissue plus temp disruption of cord function
Cord laceration - tearing and the above
Cord transection - Severing and permanent loss of function

Question 2

What is a complete injury of the spinal cord?

Answer 2

Total loss of sensory/motor function below the lesion or level of injury

Question 3

What is a primary injury of the spinal cord?

Answer 3

Definition: Immediate damage to the spinal cord from traumatic events (e.g., fractures, dislocations).

Examples: Contusions, lacerations, or complete transections.

Characteristics: Occurs at the time of injury; often irreversible.

Question 4

What is a secondary injury of the spinal cord?

Answer 4

Definition: Subsequent damage following the primary injury, often due to inflammation, ischemia, or biochemical changes.

Examples: Edema (swelling), oxidative stress, cell death, and disruption of blood flow.

Characteristics: Can evolve over hours to days; potential for recovery if managed early.

Question 5

Describe what spinal shock is?

Answer 5

A temporary condition following a spinal cord injury, characterised by the loss of reflexes (somatic & autonomic) & motor function below the level of injury.

Loss of reflexes
Flaccid paralysis.
Loss of sensation
Autonomic dysregulation

Question 6

What type of spinal shock is associated with injuries about T6?

Answer 6

Neurogenic shock - due to the disruption in sympathetic outflow than can lead to bradycardia and vasodilation

Question 7

What spinal cord segments, if damaged, cause no control of the ventilatory muscles?

Answer 7

C1 through to C4

Question 8

Identify 2 cord syndromes and their characteristics

Answer 8

1. Anterior Cord Syndrome - Injury affecting the anterior two-thirds of the spinal cord.
   Key Features: Loss of: Motor function (below the level of injury) and pain/temperature sensation.
   Preserved: Light touch and proprioception (due to intact dorsal columns).
   Causes: Often due to flexion injuries or vascular issues.
2. Brown-Séquard Syndrome- Hemisection of the spinal cord, resulting in asymmetrical deficits.
   Key Features: Ipsilateral (same side) Loss: Motor function and proprioception.
   Contralateral (opposite side) Loss: Pain and temperature sensation.
   Causes:
   Often caused by penetrating trauma (e.g., stab or gunshot wounds).