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.
What are expected functional outcomes for a C6 spinal cord injury?
Tenodesis grip.
Potential for independence in washing, dressing, and personal care with assistive devices.
Ability to self-propel on flat surfaces indoors.
Can drive with vehicle modifications.
What are the symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia?
Hypertension (>200/100 mmHg).
Pounding headache.
Sweating and flushing above the injury level.
Slow pulse (<60 bpm).
Nasal congestion and anxiety.
What are the primary risks of osteoporosis in SCI patients?
Weak and brittle bones due to reduced weight-bearing and muscle activity.
Increased fracture risk.
Prolonged healing time for fractures.
How does postural hypotension present in SCI patients?
Dizziness and light-headedness upon sitting or standing.
Blood pooling in the lower extremities.
Can lead to fainting if untreated.
How does spasticity develop in SCI patients?
How does spasticity develop in SCI patients?
Hyperactive stretch reflexes due to lost corticospinal tract inhibition.
Triggered by infections, skin breakdown, or tight muscles.
Peaks in the first year post-injury.
What are common causes of respiratory complications in SCI?
Paralysis of intercostal and accessory muscles.
Poor cough ability.
Immobility leading to infections.
What are the benefits of spasticity in SCI?
Maintains muscle size and circulation.
Can aid in transfers.
Acts as a warning system for issues like infections or pressure sores.
What are the primary risks of developing pressure sores in SCI patients?
Reduced sensation, leading to unnoticed soreness.
Muscle wasting causing prominent bony areas.
Incontinence issues.
Increased tone causing poor posture.
Aids: Pressure-relieving cushions, regular turning, and proper seating.
What factors contribute to respiratory complications in SCI patients?
Paralysis of intercostal and abdominal muscles.
Reduced diaphragm function.
Prolonged bed rest.
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.
Managed with physical therapy and, in severe cases, surgical release.
What are the common signs and symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) in SCI patients?
A:
Frequent urination.
Burning sensation during voiding.
Fever and 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.
Can cause numbness and weakness above the original injury level.
How is autonomic dysreflexia treated in SCI patients?
Sit the patient upright to lower blood pressure.
Check and remove noxious stimuli (e.g., catheter blockage).
Monitor blood pressure and seek medical attention if elevated.
