Cervical spinal cord injury

Cervical Spinal Cord Injury:

Cervical spinal cord injuries involve damage to the spinal cord in the neck region and are classified based on the severity and location of the injury. Here's a breakdown of types:

1. Incomplete Cervical Spinal Cord Injury:

   • Involves partial damage to the spinal cord.

   • Individuals may retain some sensory or motor function below the level of injury.

   • Subtypes include anterior cord syndrome, central cord syndrome, and Brown-Sequard syndrome.

2. Complete Cervical Spinal Cord Injury:

   • Results in total loss of sensory and motor function below the level of injury.

   • Typically associated with more severe trauma or damage to the spinal cord.

3. Tetraplegia (Quadriplegia):

   • Affects all four limbs and the torso.

   • Injury at the cervical level can lead to varying degrees of paralysis in the arms, hands, trunk, legs, and pelvic organs.

4. Paraplegia:

   • Affects the lower limbs and, in some cases, the trunk.

   • Injury occurs below the cervical level, usually in the thoracic or lumbar region.

5. High Cervical Spinal Cord Injury (C1-C4):

   • Most severe injuries, often resulting in tetraplegia.

   • Impacts the muscles of the neck, head, and, in severe cases, may require assistance with breathing.

6. Low Cervical Spinal Cord Injury (C5-C8):

   • Affects the upper extremities to varying degrees.

   • Individuals may have some arm and hand function, allowing for greater independence.

7. Central Cord Syndrome:

   • Typically caused by hyperextension injuries.

   • More common in older individuals.

   • Results in greater impairment of upper extremities compared to lower extremities.

8. Brown-Sequard Syndrome:

   • Results from damage to one side of the spinal cord.

   • Causes motor function loss on one side and sensory loss on the opposite side of the body.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

• Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies (MRI, CT scan), and neurological assessments.

• Treatment may include stabilization of the spine, surgical intervention, rehabilitation, and supportive care.

NYPMD Specialists for Cervical Spinal Cord Injury:

• Specialized evaluation by NYPMD neurosurgeons and specialists outside New York.

• Expertise in managing cervical spinal cord injuries through comprehensive and individualized care.

• Collaborative approach with rehabilitation specialists for optimal recovery.