Spinal Injuries Learning Flashcards
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.
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 risks and management strategies for pressure sores in SCI patients?
Risks include reduced sensation, muscle wasting, and incontinence. Management involves pressure-relieving cushions, regular repositioning, and proper seating.
What is the primary concern with heterotopic ossification in SCI?
What is the primary concern with heterotopic ossification in SCI?
The formation of bone outside the skeleton can lead to joint stiffening and fusion.
What neurological assessment tool is standard for spinal cord injuries?
The American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale (AIS).
What is Brown-Séquard Syndrome?
A spinal cord lesion affecting one side, causing:
Same-side: loss of motor function, proprioception, vibration, and light touch.
Opposite-side: loss of pain, temperature, and crude touch sensation.
What are the key features of Cauda Equina Syndrome?
Loss of movement and sensation in lower limbs.
Flaccid paralysis.
Absent reflexes.
Bladder, bowel, and erectile dysfunction.
