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19 - Acute spinal cord compression

from Section 3 - Neurological emergencies

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 November 2013

Kaushal Shah
Affiliation:
Department of Emergency Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York
Jarone Lee
Affiliation:
Department of Emergency Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
Kamal Medlej
Affiliation:
American University of Beirut
Scott D. Weingart
Affiliation:
Department of Emergency Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York
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Summary

This chapter discusses the diagnosis, evaluation and management of acute spinal cord compression. It presents special circumstances which make diagnosis and management of Cauda equina syndrome difficult. Spinal shock is characterized by a loss of spinal cord function below the level of the lesion. Cervical and thoracic level lesions may be associated with respiratory compromise. The spinal shock results in a disruption of sympathetic innervation causing unopposed parasympathetic tone, which may also cause hypotension and bradyarrhythmias (neurogenic shock). The spinal shock is characterized by flaccid paralysis and loss of bladder/bowel control. The diagnosis of acute spinal cord compression is suggested by history and physical examination, and confirmed by radiography or surgical intervention. Clinical presentations may vary depending on the level of neurological injury. The most likely causes for sudden decompensation in spinal cord include expansion of the ending lesion causing worsening neurological compromise or a high cervical/thoracic lesion.
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Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2013

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