Spine Trauma
Traumatic injury that involves the spinal column is called spine trauma. This type of injury can damage the spinal cord, nerves, vertebrae, soft tissue, or any combination thereof.
Spine trauma is classified as direct or indirect. Direct trauma results from a blow to the spine or penetrating injury such as a gunshot or knife wound. If an individual sustains trauma elsewhere on the body that, in turn, causes dislocation or fracture of spinal structures, then the trauma is referred to as indirect. For example, if you fall off a ladder and land on your side, your spine could be injured indirectly, as a result of the fall.
Symptoms
Symptoms can range from back or neck pain to variations in loss of neurological function. Pain may be the only symptom if trauma is limited to the bones or ligaments. In cases of severe trauma (ie, spinal cord injury), sensory and/or motor impairment may occur. Symptoms of spinal cord injury are related to severity of the injury and the area of the spinal cord affected.
Symptoms may include:
- Muscle weakness in the affected area
- Paralysis (eg, paraplegia or quadriplegia)
Injuries associated with spine trauma include:
- Vertebral compression fracture or burst fracture
- Herniated disc
- Spinal cord injury causing loss of function below the level of injury
A vertebral compression fracture denotes a partial break occurring in the front (anterior) of the vertebra. Compression fractures can cause pain ranging from mild to severe. A burst fracture is a more serious injury, in that the vertebra is crushed in all directions. Burst fractures cause searing pain, often affect motor function, and carry the risk of inflicting damage to the spinal cord.
Accurate Diagnosis Essential
If spine trauma is suspected, the back or neck is stabilized with a brace. Dr. Frazier examines you to determine if there are any obvious neurological deficits, or if you are experiencing pain anywhere along the spinal column. He will most likely evaluate your injury further with x-rays, CT scan, or MRI. Dr. Frazier reviews possible loss of arm or leg reflexes, muscle weakness, loss of feeling and/or abnormal sensations such as numbness or tingling.
Treatment
Treatment is dependent on the extent of injury. Generally, clinical observation and immobilization with braces or collars is appropriate for mild injuries such as whiplash or sprains.
Injuries causing fracture of disc herniation may require surgical intervention such as fusion, decompression, or internal or external reduction.
If it is determined that injury to the spinal cord has occurred, high doses of steroids are usually administered in the Emergency Room to reduce swelling and prevent further damage to the spinal cord.
A surgical recommendation may be made if the injury is severe, after non-surgical treatments are exhausted, or if certain symptoms worsen. Dr. Frazier will explain your condition and prognosis. If Dr. Frazier recommends spine surgery, he will explain to you:
- Why he recommends surgery
- How surgery may be of benefit
- Possible risks and complications
- When (how soon) is surgical treatment needed
- Procedure name and type
- How to prepare for surgery
- Surgery aftercare and recovery
Having a clear understanding of the expected surgical outcome is essential to making an informed treatment decision. Trauma to the spine has the potential to cause great physical and emotional distress. Dr. Frazier and his staff recognize this and are committed to giving you the support you need and working with you during your recovery.
