Author/Authors :
Ewees, Bahaa Ain Shams University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive care, and Pain Management, Egypt , Magdy, Hadil Ain-Shams University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care, and Pain Management, Egypt , Saleh, Mohamed Ain-Shams University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care Pain Management, Egypt , Morsy, Ahmed Ain-Shams University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Egypt , Ashour, Mohamed Hany Nasr City Insurance Hospital - Department of Orthopedic and Spine Specialist, Egypt
Abstract :
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are classified as complete or incomplete injuries. Central cord syndrome (CCS) is the most common type of incomplete SCI. The syndrome mostly occurs in older individuals with underlying cervical spondylosis caused by a hyperextension injury. The neurological impairment is characterized by a disproportionate weakness of the upper extremities more than the lower extremities and may also include bladder dysfunction and varying degrees of sensory loss. The natural history of the syndrome varies, with some patients experiencing complete spontaneous recovery and others having persistent neurological deficits. The role of surgical intervention remains controversial. We present a case of an elderly patient with cervical spondylosis who underwent thoracolumbar spine fixation and was complicated by CCS mostly due to hyperextension injury during surgery.
