spine disorders Flashcards
1
Q
What is spina bifida
A
It is a birth defect where there is incomplet closing of the spine and the membranes around the spinal cord during development
2
Q
What is the presentation of spina bifia
A
- Back swelling
- Lower limb deficit
- sensory deficit
- scoliosis
- incontinence
- retention
3
Q
What is the treatment of spina bifida
A
Primary surgical closure
4
Q
What is the presentation of cauda equina syndrome
A
- Leg pain
- leg weakness
- saddle anaesthesia - loss of feeling on buttocks area (no sensation when wiping)
- bladder and bowel dysfunction
- sexual dysfunction
- increased anal tone
- absent ankle reflex
5
Q
How to tell the difference between incomplete and complete cauda equona
A
Complete has urinary and bowel incontinence or retention while incomplete has decreased urinary sensation
6
Q
What is the treatment of cauda equina syndrome
A
Surgical decompression within 24 hours
7
Q
What is spinal shock
A
- Transient loss of all neurogenic function below the level of the spinal cord - flaccid paralysis and areflexia
- Hypotension with a systolic blood pressure around 80mmHg and less
- 3 days but can be weeks longs
8
Q
What is the presentation of central cord syndrome
A
- hyperextension injury in older patients
- weakness in upper limbs
- Sensory loss below level of injury
- urine retention
9
Q
What is the presentation of anterior cord syndrome
A
- Paraplegia or quadraplegia
- Loss of pain and temp sensation but preservation of dorsal column tract and therefore joint position sense and vibration
