Selkäydinvaurioissa

Selkäydinvaurio, or spinal cord injury, refers to damage to the spinal cord that results in temporary or permanent changes in strength, sensation, and function. The injury can be complete, where the spinal cord is severed and all function below the injury level is lost, or incomplete, where some signaling pathways remain intact.

Causes of spinal cord injuries are diverse. The most common are motor vehicle accidents, falls from height, sports trauma, and violence. Medical conditions such as spinal fractures, infections, tumors, and congenital malformations can also lead to spinal cord damage. In many cases, trauma occurs at a cervical level (neck), leading to tetraplegia, or at a thoracic or lumbar level, causing paraplegia.

Diagnosis is typically made by neurological examination, imaging studies such as MRI, CT scans, and sometimes electrophysiological tests. The International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI) provides a uniform method for describing injury level and severity.

Treatment involves early spinal stabilization, often with surgical decompression or instrumentation. High-dose methylprednisolone has been used in acute settings, although its efficacy remains debated. Rehabilitation, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive devices, is crucial for optimizing functional outcomes. Secondary complications such as pressure ulcers, infections, respiratory problems, and autonomic dysreflexia can affect mortality and quality of life.

Prognosis depends on injury completeness, level, and promptness of care. Individuals with incomplete cervical injuries may recover considerable function, whereas complete thoracic injuries generally result in long-term dependence on assistance. Prevention includes wearing seatbelts, using protective gear in sports, and workplace safety measures.

The global incidence of spinal cord injury is estimated at 10–40 cases per million people per year. Research continues into neuroprotective agents, stem cell therapies, and advanced neuroprosthetics to improve recovery prospects.