Management of Spinal Injuries With Associated Cord Damage

Abstract

Since World War II the prognosis for the patient with a spinal injury has dramatically changed and mortality has been greatly reduced.

A general physical and neurologic assessment of the patient should be made as soon as possible. Main muscle groups and respiratory muscles, modalities of sensation, reflexes, and the autonomic nervous system must be assessed. X-ray examination should follow clinical evaluation.

The course of treatment after diagnosis is directed by the need to decompress neural structures and the need to stabilize their bony envelopes.

Care of the patient with a spinal injury consists chiefly of preventing complications.