Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 7, 2026

A Contusion Model of Severe Spinal Cord Injury in Rats
Published on: August 17, 2013
Critical care management of patients with acute spinal cord injury
1Department of Neurosurgery University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Medical School, Houston, TX, USA - Kiwon.Lee@uth.tmc.edu.
Abstract:
Spinal cord injury (SCI) inevitably extends beyond neurologic consequences. The relationship between the spinal cord and its control of other organ systems make SCI management complex, requiring treatment on a multisystem approach. Patients frequently have hemodynamic instability and respiratory insufficiency secondary to the neurologic insult. Rigorous monitoring and anticipation of potential complications are essential in managing SCI, requiring a level of care provided in a neurocritical care unit. This review covers the pathophysiology, initial assessment, and stabilization in addition to acute management of cardiovascular and respiratory issues following SCI. Subsequent potential complications of deep vein thrombosis, gastrointestinal, and urinary systems and their management in the critical care setting are also addressed in this review.
Related Concept Videos
Secondary Spinal Cord Injury llI: Pathophysiology
Spinal Cord Injury ll: Pathophysiology
Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care
Acute Coronary Syndrome V: Nursing Management
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation IV: Pharmacological Management
Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management

