Neuroscience Center Virtualbook_EN

Acute spinal cord injury (SCI) is due to a traumatic injury that bruises, partially tears, or completely tears the spinal cord. SCI is a common cause of permanent disability and death. Acute spinal cord injury

Treatment guidelines

Acute spinal cord injury requires emergency medical attention on the scene of the accident or injury. The head and neck must be immobilized to prevent movement. Specic treatment for an acute spinal cord injury is based on several factors including age, severity and type of injury. Treatment may include the following:

mechanical ventilator

bladder catheter

tube feeding

surgery

medications

Prevention

While it cannot be surely prevented, the following is advised to lower the risk:

Take precautions to avoid falls.

Always wear a seat belt while in a vehicle.

Wear a helmet when playing sports or doing activities that may cause head injury, e.g. cycling, riding a motorcycle.