The prognosis of patients sustaining severe cervical spine injury (C2-C7 inclusive)

Authors:
Publisher website
Google Scholar
Abstract
In a study of 145 patients with severe cervical spine injury, it was found that 79 had serious neurological disturbance. A policy of the earliest possible referral to a spinal paralysis service is recommended. Associated injuries and in particular a head injury can make early precise neurological diagnosis difficult, and may affect management of the spinal injury. The use of Gardner Wells Skull Tongs and the Edinburgh Simpson Bed is recommended. Early spinal operation does not influence outcome of neurological function. Anatomical re-alignment of the spine is not essential for neurological recovery. Myelography is very rarely of benefit in assisting diagnosis and treatment. Glucocorti-costeroids and Mannitol do not appear to influence neurological recovery. The prognosis in relation to clinical neurological syndromes is discussed.

This publication has 17 references indexed in Scilit: