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Clinical presentation of spinal cord concussion.
1Section of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
Spine
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Spinal cord concussion is a temporary spinal cord function disturbance resolving within 48 hours. This condition, seen in 3.7% of spinal injury patients, results from rapid velocity changes during trauma.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Traumatology
- Spinal Cord Injury
Background:
- Spinal cord concussion is a transient functional disturbance without permanent pathology.
- It arises from rapid acceleration/deceleration forces impacting the spinal cord.
- This condition resolves within 48 hours post-trauma.
Observation:
- A retrospective review identified spinal cord concussion in 3.7% of tertiary care spinal injury patients.
- Thirteen cases were analyzed, exhibiting diverse clinical presentations.
- The cervical spinal cord was most frequently affected, though any level can be involved.
Findings:
- Clinical presentations correlate with the magnitude and direction of spinal cord acceleration.
- Pre-existing vertebral abnormalities, like spinal stenosis or hypermobility, are often associated.
- No demonstrable pathologic changes are found, emphasizing its transient nature.
Implications:
- Understanding spinal cord concussion aids in accurate diagnosis and management of transient neurological deficits after trauma.
- Recognizing associated vertebral abnormalities is crucial for assessing injury risk and prognosis.
- Further research can elucidate the precise biomechanics and long-term outcomes.