C7 transverse process fracture1/4/2024 ![]() ![]() The initial assessment should define two aspects: 1 Adequate analgesia should be provided.įor more information on managing trauma patients, see the Geeky Medics guide to the acute management of major trauma. This may involve using a back brace or traction to immobilise the spine. Initial assessment and acute managementĪcute treatment for spinal fractures typically involves stabilising the spine to prevent further injury and manage pain. Loss of anal tone can indicate spinal shock. Patients with spinal cord injury may have weakness or paralysis in the affected limbs, loss of sensation, and altered reflexes.Ĭonsider performing a rectal examination in patients with suspected spinal cord injury. Past medical history: pre-existing medical conditions, such as osteoporosis or cancer, may increase the risk of spinal fracturesĪll patients should undergo a thorough examination, including inspection and palpation of the neck and spine for swelling, bruising or bony deformity.Ī neurological examination should be performed, including an assessment of motor function, sensory function, and reflexes.Bowel and bladder function: identify any changes in bowel or bladder function, as these can indicate spinal cord injury.Mechanism of injury: the cause and circumstances of the injury, including whether it was a high-impact trauma, fall, or sports-related injury.Other important areas to cover in the history include Weakness/paralysis: may indicate a spinal cord injury.Paraesthesia: may indicate a spinal cord injury.Typical symptoms of a spinal fracture may include: The clinical features of spinal fractures and spinal cord injury can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Risk factors for sustaining a spinal fracture include: The location and severity of the damage determine the extent of neurological deficits and the overall prognosis.įor more information, see the Geeky Medics guides to the vertebral column and spinal cord. In contrast, thoracic or lumbar spine injuries can result in paraplegia (paralysis of the lower limbs). Injuries to the cervical spine can result in quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs). Injuries to the spinal cord can disrupt this communication, leading to neurological deficits. The spinal cord carries sensory and motor information between the brain and the rest of the body. The spinal cord runs through the spinal canal, formed by the vertebrae. The spine is divided into three regions: cervical, thoracic and lumbar. Understanding the clinically important anatomy of the spine can help understand the impact of spinal fractures. Traumatic causes of spinal fractures and spinal cord injury include:ĭiseases and degenerative changes that can contribute to spinal fractures include: Spinal fractures can result from various causes, including trauma, diseases, and degenerative changes. Want discounted access to all Geeky Medics products, including our surgery flashcard collection? Check out our bundles to save money and supercharge your learning □ Aetiology ![]()
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