Spinal Trauma

Question 0

List 4 different direct/indirect forces involved in SCI

Answer 0

Rotation 
Compression
Hyperflexion
Hyper extension
Distraction (hanging)

Question 1

Describe spinal cord injury SCI

Answer 1

SCI is an insult to the spinal cord resulting in a change (either temporary or perminant) in its normal motor, sensory or autonomic function.

Question 2

Name 2 phases of SCI

Answer 2

Primary SCI: damage at time of injury

Secondary SCI: occurs in hours after injury

Question 3

What are forces involved in SCI?

Answer 3

Direct: destruction from direct physical assault eg stabbing to sc

Indirect: injury caused by excessive movement of the spinal cord eg whiplash. Including: compression (diving accident) rotation (t-bone injury) hyper extension, heperflexion, lateral bending.

Question 4

Difference between neurogenic shock and spinal shock?

Answer 4

Neurogenic shock: occurs in SCI above T6

Spinal Shock: occurs in cervical and lower thoracic SCI

Question 5

When is spinal immobilisation indicated?

Answer 5

GCS less than 15/15
Neurological deficiency
Spinal pain
deformity, tenderness
Significant head or facial injury

Question 6

Which airway manoeuvre must be used for SCI?

Answer 6

Double airway

Question 7

What is the order of stabilising SCI patient?

Answer 7

THE
Thoracic
Head
Extremities