Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - S14
- Condição
What is a traumatic spinal cord injury?
A spinal cord injury is damage that can be either temporary or permanent to the spinal cord, a vital part of the nervous system. This injury can cause various symptoms and problems, depending on its extent and location
Symptoms
The symptoms of a traumatic spinal cord injury may vary depending on its severity, but the most common include:
- loss of sensation below the injury site: this may include numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation on the skin
- muscle weakness: the intensity may vary depending on the severity of the injury
- bladder and bowel problems: leading to complications such as urinary or fecal incontinence or difficulty
- breathing difficulties: especially when the nerves in the neck (cervical region) are affected, which can interfere with respiratory function, causing shallow breathing or ventilation issues
Causes
The causes of traumatic spinal cord injuries are diverse and may include falls from heights, diving into shallow water, car accidents, sports injuries, and wounds caused by firearms or sharp objects
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a traumatic spinal cord injury involves:
- clinical examination: performed by an orthopedic doctor or neurosurgeon who will assess the symptoms and neurological signs associated with the spinal cord injury. This may include tests for sensation, reflexes, muscle strength, and motor function
- imaging tests: may include simple X-rays, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which is particularly useful for detecting spinal cord injuries and assessing their extent and location
Treatment
Treatment for a traumatic spinal cord injury should be tailored to each case, depending on the nature of the injury. Approaches include:
- emergency care: in the early stages after the injury, further damage to the spine must be prevented, as it may present mechanical instability. Therefore, it is essential to immobilize the patient with a cervical collar and long spine board, and to perform log-roll movements
- surgery: may be necessary in more severe cases as a means of neural decompression, realignment, and spinal stabilization. When indicated, surgery should be performed as soon as possible
- rehabilitation: physical therapy is necessary to improve muscle strength, mobility, and motor function, along with occupational therapy to assist with adapting to daily activities
- medication: the doctor may prescribe medications to control pain, muscle spasms, and other symptoms associated with spinal cord injury. This may include painkillers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs
Prevention
Preventing spinal cord injuries should be encouraged through simple changes in risky behaviors, such as:
- Wearing a seatbelt: when traveling by car, whether in the front or back seat. Proper use can significantly reduce the risk of spinal cord injuries in the event of a traffic accident
- Using protection when playing sports: especially in high-risk activities like football. Helmets, protective vests, and other safety equipment can help prevent serious spinal cord injuries
- Fall prevention: workers should use full safety equipment, especially those performing tasks at heights
- Avoid diving headfirst into unknown waters: cervical trauma in pools, the sea, or rivers can be avoided by raising awareness about this danger
References
Saúde e Bem-Estar
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