Abstract
The spinal cord extends from the base of the skull to the first lumbar vertebrae from which it continues as cauda equina. Injuries to the spinal cord can lead to significant short- and long-term morbidities. Depending on the level of injury, morbidities may include acute hemodynamic changes, weakness of respiratory muscles and ventilator dependence, and loss of bowel and bladder function. Acute spinal cord injury with cord compression is a surgical emergency. Important anesthetic implications include airway stabilization and management, fluid management, and maintenance of spinal cord perfusion pressure at all times.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 127-138 |
Number of pages | 12 |
Journal | Anesthesiology Clinics |
Volume | 39 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Mar 2021 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- ASIA impairment scale
- Acute spinal cord injury
- Autonomic dysreflexia
- Spinal anatomy
- Spinal shock
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine