Surgical and Neurointensive Management for Acute Spinal Cord Injury: A Narrative Review

Spinal cord injury (SCI) following high-energy trauma often leads to lasting neurologic deficits and severe socioeconomic impact. Effective neurointensive care, particularly in the early stages post-injury, is essential for optimizing outcomes. This review discusses the role of neurointensive care in managing SCI, emphasizing early assessment, stabilization, and intervention strategies based on recent evidence-based practices. SCI results from primary mechanical damage to the spinal cord, triggering secondary injuries involving vascular and cellular dysfunction. Early neurointensive care focuses on stabilizing airway, breathing, and circulation while preventing further spinal damage. Imaging and neurologic assessments, including the ASIA scale, guide the management plan. Early decompressive surgery within 24 hours is widely supported for patients with spinal instability or cord compression. Pharmacologic strategies aim to reduce secondary injury, though standardization remains limited. Prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, intensive pulmonary support, and monitoring for pressure sores are critical in early-phase SCI. Early neurointensive care and surgical interventions play a pivotal role in mitigating SCI progression. Optimal care requires a multifaceted approach addressing both neurologic and systemic complications, significantly influencing recovery and long-term quality of life. Further research is needed to standardize pharmacologic treatments and optimize surgical timing.