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Dastagirzada YM, Konigsberg A, Thompson D, Anderson RCE. Pediatric cervical spine instability: evolving concepts. Childs Nerv Syst 2024:10.1007/s00381-024-06474-w. [PMID: 38900291 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-024-06474-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The pediatric cervical spine is structurally and biomechanically unique in comparison to adults. Guidelines to assess for cervical spine instability and standard of care treatments in the pediatric population have yet to be delineated. This is due to the rarity of the condition and the lack of multicenter data published on the topic. Our review explores the biomechanics of the pediatric cervical spine and highlights evolving concepts/research over the last several decades, with special attention to the Down syndrome and complex Chiari malformation cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dominic Thompson
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Bonsignore-Opp L, O'Donnell J, Agha O, Bach K, Metz L, Swarup I. Evaluation and Management of Thoracolumbar Spine Trauma in Pediatric Patients: A Critical Analysis Review. JBJS Rev 2024; 12:01874474-202406000-00002. [PMID: 38885326 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.rvw.24.00045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
» Pediatric thoracolumbar trauma, though rare, is an important cause of morbidity and mortality and necessitates early, accurate diagnosis and management.» Obtaining a detailed history and physical examination in the pediatric population can be difficult. Therefore, the threshold for advanced imaging, such as magnetic resonance imaging, is low and should be performed in patients with head injuries, altered mental status, inability to cooperate with examination, and fractures involving more than 1 column of the spine.» The classification of pediatric thoracolumbar trauma is based primarily on adult studies and there is little high-level evidence examining validity and accuracy in pediatric populations.» Injury pattern and neurologic status of the patient are the most important factors when determining whether to proceed with operative management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Bonsignore-Opp
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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Liu R, Fan Q, He J, Wu X, Tan W, Yan Z, Wang W, Li Z, Deng YW. Clinical characteristics analysis of pediatric spinal cord injury without radiological abnormality in China: a retrospective study. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:236. [PMID: 38570804 PMCID: PMC10988788 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-024-04716-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to analyze the clinical characteristics of Chinese children with spinal cord injury (SCI) without radiographic abnormality (SCIWORA) and explore their contributing factors and mechanisms of occurrence. METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of pediatric patients diagnosed with SCIWORA from January 2005 to May 2020. Epidemiological, etiological, mechanistic, therapeutic, and outcome aspects were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 47 patients with SCIWORA were included in this study, comprising 16 males and 31 females. The age range was 4 to 12 years, with an average age of 7.49 ± 2.04 years, and 70% of the patients were below eight. Sports-related injuries constituted 66%, with 70% attributed to dance backbend practice. Thoracic segment injuries accounted for 77%. In the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) classification, the combined proportion of A and B grades accounted for 88%. Conservative treatment was chosen by 98% of the patients, with muscle atrophy, spinal scoliosis, hip joint abnormalities, and urinary system infections being the most common complications. CONCLUSION SCIWORA in Chinese children is more prevalent in those under eight years old, with a higher incidence in females than males. Thoracic spinal cord injuries are predominant, dance backbend as a primary contributing factor, and the social environment of "neijuan" is a critical potential inducing factor. Furthermore, the initial severity of the injury plays a decisive role in determining the prognosis of SCIWORA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renfeng Liu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Qizhi Fan
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jingpeng He
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xin Wu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Wei Tan
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zuyun Yan
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Weiguo Wang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhiyue Li
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - You-Wen Deng
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
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Thomas AX, Erklauer JC. Neurocritical care and neuromonitoring considerations in acute pediatric spinal cord injury. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2024; 49:101122. [PMID: 38677801 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2024.101122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Management of pediatric spinal cord injury (SCI) is an essential skill for all pediatric neurocritical care physicians. In this review, we focus on the evaluation and management of pediatric SCI, highlight a novel framework for the monitoring of such patients in the intensive care unit (ICU), and introduce advancements in critical care techniques in monitoring and management. The initial evaluation and characterization of SCI is crucial for improving outcomes as well as prognostication. While physical examination and imaging are the main stays of the work-up, we propose the use of somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for challenging clinical scenarios. SSEPs allow for functional evaluation of the dorsal columns consisting of tracts associated with hand function, ambulation, and bladder function. Meanwhile, TMS has the potential for informing prognostication as well as response to rehabilitation. Spine stabilization, and in some cases surgical decompression, along with respiratory and hemodynamic management are essential. Emerging research suggests that targeted spinal cerebral perfusion pressure may provide potential benefits. This review aims to increase the pediatric neurocritical care physician's comfort with SCI while providing a novel algorithm for monitoring spinal cord function in the ICU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay X Thomas
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Jennifer C Erklauer
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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Tavender E, Eapen N, Wang J, Rausa VC, Babl FE, Phillips N. Triage tools for detecting cervical spine injury in paediatric trauma patients. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 3:CD011686. [PMID: 38517085 PMCID: PMC10958760 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011686.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paediatric cervical spine injury (CSI) after blunt trauma is rare but can have severe consequences. Clinical decision rules (CDRs) have been developed to guide clinical decision-making, minimise unnecessary tests and associated risks, whilst detecting all significant CSIs. Several validated CDRs are used to guide imaging decision-making in adults following blunt trauma and clinical criteria have been proposed as possible paediatric-specific CDRs. Little information is known about their accuracy. OBJECTIVES To assess and compare the diagnostic accuracy of CDRs or sets of clinical criteria, alone or in comparison with each other, for the evaluation of CSI following blunt trauma in children. SEARCH METHODS For this update, we searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and six other databases from 1 January 2015 to 13 December 2022. As we expanded the index test eligibility for this review update, we searched the excluded studies from the previous version of the review for eligibility. We contacted field experts to identify ongoing studies and studies potentially missed by the search. There were no language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA We included cross-sectional or cohort designs (retrospective and prospective) and randomised controlled trials that compared the diagnostic accuracy of any CDR or clinical criteria compared with a reference standard for the evaluation of paediatric CSI following blunt trauma. We included studies evaluating one CDR or comparing two or more CDRs (directly and indirectly). We considered X-ray, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervical spine, and clinical clearance/follow-up as adequate reference standards. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened titles and abstracts for relevance, and carried out eligibility, data extraction and quality assessment. A third review author arbitrated. We extracted data on study design, participant characteristics, inclusion/exclusion criteria, index test, target condition, reference standard and data (diagnostic two-by-two tables) and calculated and plotted sensitivity and specificity on forest plots for visual examination of variation in test accuracy. We assessed methodological quality using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies Version 2 tool. We graded the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. MAIN RESULTS We included five studies with 21,379 enrolled participants, published between 2001 and 2021. Prevalence of CSI ranged from 0.5% to 1.85%. Seven CDRs were evaluated. Three studies reported on direct comparisons of CDRs. One study (973 participants) directly compared the accuracy of three index tests with the sensitivities of NEXUS, Canadian C-Spine Rule and the PECARN retrospective criteria being 1.00 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48 to 1.00), 1.00 (95% CI 0.48 to 1.00) and 1.00 (95% CI 0.48 to 1.00), respectively. The specificities were 0.56 (95% CI 0.53 to 0.59), 0.52 (95% CI 0.49 to 0.55) and 0.32 (95% CI 0.29 to 0.35), respectively (moderate-certainty evidence). One study (4091 participants) compared the accuracy of the PECARN retrospective criteria with the Leonard de novo model; the sensitivities were 0.91 (95% CI 0.81 to 0.96) and 0.92 (95% CI 0.83 to 0.97), respectively. The specificities were 0.46 (95% CI 0.44 to 0.47) and 0.50 (95% CI 0.49 to 0.52) (moderate- and low-certainty evidence, respectively). One study (270 participants) compared the accuracy of two NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) head injury guidelines; the sensitivity of the CG56 guideline was 1.00 (95% CI 0.48 to 1.00) compared to 1.00 (95% CI 0.48 to 1.00) with the CG176 guideline. The specificities were 0.46 (95% CI 0.40 to 0.52) and 0.07 (95% CI 0.04 to 0.11), respectively (very low-certainty evidence). Two additional studies were indirect comparison studies. One study (3065 participants) tested the accuracy of the NEXUS criteria; the sensitivity was 1.00 (95% CI 0.88 to 1.00) and specificity was 0.20 (95% CI 0.18 to 0.21) (low-certainty evidence). One retrospective study (12,537 participants) evaluated the PEDSPINE criteria and found a sensitivity of 0.93 (95% CI 0.78 to 0.99) and specificity of 0.70 (95% CI 0.69 to 0.72) (very low-certainty evidence). We did not pool data within the broader CDR categories or investigate heterogeneity due to the small quantity of data and the clinical heterogeneity of studies. Two studies were at high risk of bias. We identified two studies that are awaiting classification pending further information and two ongoing studies. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is insufficient evidence to determine the diagnostic test accuracy of CDRs to detect CSIs in children following blunt trauma, particularly for children under eight years of age. Although most studies had a high sensitivity, this was often achieved at the expense of low specificity and should be interpreted with caution due to a small number of CSIs and wide CIs. Well-designed, large studies are required to evaluate the accuracy of CDRs for the cervical spine clearance in children following blunt trauma, ideally in direct comparison with each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Tavender
- Emergency Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Departments of Paediatrics and Critical Care, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nitaa Eapen
- Emergency Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Junfeng Wang
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Vanessa C Rausa
- Emergency Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Franz E Babl
- Emergency Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Departments of Paediatrics and Critical Care, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Emergency Department, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Natalie Phillips
- Emergency Department, Queensland Children's Hospital, Children's Health Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Biomechanics and Spine Research Group, Centre for Children's Health Research, School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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Guo S, Gong H, Xu P, Xie Y, Yang D, Liu Z, Yang Y, Chen L, Xie Y, Yang M. Clinical characteristics and proposed mechanism of pediatric spinal cord injury resulting from backbend practice. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1263280. [PMID: 37881636 PMCID: PMC10597629 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1263280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Pediatric spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality (SCIWORA) caused by backbend practice is increasing. This study proposed an underlying 'combined injury mechanism' related to the spinal cord and femoral nerve overstretching. Methods Pediatric patients diagnosed with backbend-associated SCIWORA at the China Rehabilitation Research Center during 2017-2021 were recruited. Clinical and imaging data were collected, and each patient's clinical course and prognosis were determined. Healthy dancers were recruited to simulate the backbend, obtain images, and estimate the spinal cord and femoral nerve stretch ratio. A model for the 'combined injury mechanism' was established using 4-week-old SD rats. Results Forty-two SCIWORA female patients with an average age of 6 (SD 1) years and an average hospitalization time of 91 (SD 43) days were assessed. The primary initial symptom was pain in the back and/or lower extremities (33, 79%). The average time from injury onset to severe paralysis was 2.0 (SD 0.6) hours. Most patients had complete paraplegia (32, 76%), and neurological levels were distributed mainly in thoracic segments (38, 91%). Patients with elicited tendon reflexes on admission tended to have an incomplete spinal cord injury (p = 0.001) and improved motor recovery (p = 0.018). After one year, the most common complications were scoliosis (31, 74%) and abnormal hips (14, 33%). Injury of the caudal spinal cord torn by nerve roots was confirmed by surgical exploration in a case. The thoracic spinal cord and femoral nerves were overstretched by 148.8 ± 3.6% and111.7 ± 4.0%, respectively, in a full backbend posture. The 'combined injury mechanism' was partially replicated in the animal model. Conclusion Spinal overstretch and transient dislocation are considered the primary mechanisms by which SCIWORA occurs in children. Overstretching the femoral nerve aggravates spinal cord injuries caused by backbend practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Guo
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Huiming Gong
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Peipei Xu
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Rehabilitation Department, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Xie
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Degang Yang
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Zitong Liu
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuwei Yang
- Beijing Opera Art’s College, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Chen
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yongqi Xie
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Mingliang Yang
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
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Santifort KM, Carrera I, Platt S. Case report: Traumatic hemorrhagic cervical myelopathy in a dog. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1260719. [PMID: 37869493 PMCID: PMC10585029 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1260719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
A 1.5-year-old female entire French bulldog was referred for neurological evaluation, further diagnostic tests, and treatment 24 h after a road traffic accident. Initial emergency treatment, diagnostic tests, and stabilization had been performed by the referring veterinarian. Neurological examination revealed severe spastic non-ambulatory tetraparesis and was consistent with a C1-5 myelopathy. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study revealed an irregular to elongated ovoid intramedullary lesion centered over the body of C2. The lesion showed marked signal heterogeneity with a central T2W and T2* hyperintense region, surrounded by a hypointense rim on both sequences. The lesion appeared heterogeneously T1W hypointense. The lesion was asymmetric (right-sided), affecting both white and gray matter. The C2-3 intervertebral disk appeared moderately degenerate with a Pfirrmann grade of 3. No evidence of vertebral fracture or luxation was found on radiographs or MRI of the vertebral column. Additional soft tissue abnormalities in the area of the right brachial plexus were suggestive of brachial plexus and muscle injury. A diagnosis of traumatic hemorrhagic myelopathy at the level of C2 and concurrent brachial plexus injury was formed. Conservative treatment was elected and consisted of physiotherapy, bladder care with an indwelling urinary catheter, repeated IV methadone based on pain scoring (0.2 mg/kg), oral meloxicam 0.1 mg/kg q24h, and oral gabapentin 10 mg/kg q8h. The dog was discharged after 4 days, with an indwelling urinary catheter and oral medication as described. The catheter was replaced two times by the referring veterinarian and finally removed after 10 days. Thereafter, voluntary urination was seen. During the 2 months after the road traffic accident, slow recovery of motor function was seen. The right thoracic limb recovery progressed more slowly than the left limb, also showing some lower motor neuron signs during follow-up. This was judged to be consistent with a right-sided brachial plexus injury. The dog was reported ambulatory with mild residual ataxia and residual monoparesis of the right thoracic limb at the last follow-up 3 months post-injury. This case report highlights the MRI-based diagnosis of traumatic hemorrhagic myelopathy in a dog. A fair short-term outcome was achieved with conservative treatment in this case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koen M. Santifort
- IVC Evidensia Small Animal Referral Hospital Arnhem, Neurology, Arnhem, Netherlands
- IVC Evidensia Small Animal Referral Hospital Hart van Brabant, Neurology, Waalwijk, Netherlands
| | - Ines Carrera
- Vet Oracle Teleradiology, Norfolk, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Platt
- Vet Oracle Teleradiology, Norfolk, United Kingdom
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Hect JL, McDowell MM, Fields D, Greene S. Relationship of cervical soft tissue injury and surgical predication following pediatric cervical spinal trauma and its sequelae on long-term neurologic outcome. World Neurosurg X 2023; 20:100235. [PMID: 37456687 PMCID: PMC10339037 DOI: 10.1016/j.wnsx.2023.100235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Within the sample of 181 patients with cervical CT, CT identified unstable injury with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 95%. CT identified operable injury at the CCJ with 86% sensitivity and 91% specificity. CT was considered the gold standard for identification of fractures. Together, the presence of CT imaging suggestive of unstable injury or persistent neurologic complaint had a 100% sensitivity and 81% specificity. Finally, across all patients MRI had 100% sensitivity and 89% specificity for detection of unstable injury requiring surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine L. Hect
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Michael M. McDowell
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Daryl Fields
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Stephanie Greene
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, USA
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Cunha NSC, Malvea A, Sadat S, Ibrahim GM, Fehlings MG. Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury: A Review. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1456. [PMID: 37761417 PMCID: PMC10530251 DOI: 10.3390/children10091456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
A spinal cord injury (SCI) can be a devastating condition in children, with profound implications for their overall health and quality of life. In this review, we aim to provide a concise overview of the key aspects associated with SCIs in the pediatric population. Firstly, we discuss the etiology and epidemiology of SCIs in children, highlighting the diverse range of causes. We explore the unique anatomical and physiological characteristics of the developing spinal cord that contribute to the specific challenges faced by pediatric patients. Next, we delve into the clinical presentation and diagnostic methods, emphasizing the importance of prompt and accurate diagnosis to facilitate appropriate interventions. Furthermore, we approach the multidisciplinary management of pediatric SCIs, encompassing acute medical care, surgical interventions, and ongoing supportive therapies. Finally, we explore emerging research as well as innovative therapies in the field, and we emphasize the need for continued advancements in understanding and treating SCIs in children to improve their functional independence and overall quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anahita Malvea
- Division of Neurosurgery, Krembil Neuroscience Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada;
| | - Sarah Sadat
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada;
| | - George M. Ibrahim
- Division of Neurosurgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1E8, Canada;
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Michael G. Fehlings
- Division of Neurosurgery, Krembil Neuroscience Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada;
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
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Sirén A, Nyman M, Syvänen J, Mattila K, Hirvonen J. Emergency MRI in Spine Trauma of Children and Adolescents-A Pictorial Review. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1094. [PMID: 37508591 PMCID: PMC10378627 DOI: 10.3390/children10071094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Severe spinal trauma is uncommon in the pediatric population, but due to the potentially devastating consequences of missed injury, it poses a diagnostic challenge in emergency departments. Diagnostic imaging is often needed to exclude or confirm the injury and to assess its extent. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers an excellent view of both bony and soft tissue structures and their traumatic findings without exposing children to ionizing radiation. Our pictorial review aims to demonstrate the typical traumatic findings, physiological phenomena, and potential pitfalls of emergency MRI in the trauma of the growing spine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aapo Sirén
- Department of Radiology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Mikko Nyman
- Department of Radiology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Johanna Syvänen
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Kimmo Mattila
- Department of Radiology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Jussi Hirvonen
- Department of Radiology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, 20520 Turku, Finland
- Medical Imaging Center, Department of Radiology, Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital, 33100 Tampere, Finland
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Piao H, Li H, Zhang J. Acupuncture acupoints of spine and lower limb for pediatric backbend-induced thoracic spinal cord injury: Four case reports and literature review. NeuroRehabilitation 2023:NRE230006. [PMID: 37248920 DOI: 10.3233/nre-230006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Backbend-induced pediatric thoracic spinal cord injury without radiologic abnormality (BBPT-SCIWORA) in children is rare in clinical practice and leads to lower limb motor dysfunction. There are few clinical studies on BBPT-SCIWORA and even fewer on treatments for BBPT-SCIWORA-induced lower limb motor dysfunction. OBJECTIVE To explore the therapeutic effect of acupuncture at bilateral spine acupoints combined with lower limb acupoints in BBPT-SCIWORA. CASE PRESENTATION This study reported four cases of BBPT-SCIWORA after dancing, two of which received a unique medium-frequency electroacupuncture treatment. They were all females aged between 5 and 12 years old. They were diagnosed with BBPT-SCIWORA by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), transferred to the rehabilitation department for lower limb dysfunction, and received rehabilitation treatments and acupuncture. Cases 1 and 2 received acupuncture treatment for lower limb acupoints, while Cases 3 and 4 received acupuncture treatment at the bilateral spine acupoints beside the lesion and lower limb acupoints. Cases 3 and 4 achieved better American spinal injury association (AIS) grades and lower extremity motor scores (LEMS) than Cases 1 and 2 after treatment. CONCLUSION Acupuncture treatment of beside bilateral spine acupoints plus lower limb acupoints therapy might facilitate early lower limb motor function recovery in children with BBPT-SCIWORA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglan Piao
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Han Li
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jinming Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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12
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Li J, Liu J, Liu HW, Wei S, Jia YX, Li JJ. The trends in sports-related spinal cord injury in China. Spinal Cord 2023; 61:218-223. [PMID: 36585484 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-022-00872-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective epidemiological study. OBJECTIVES To determine the characteristics of sports-related spinal cord injury (SCI) in China and assess changes in the trend of these injuries that may impact policy making. SETTING China Rehabilitation Research Center (CRRC), Beijing. METHODS Of the 2448 SCI cases reviewed, 6.7% (n = 164) were caused by sport- and recreation-related accidents. They were admitted to the CRRC between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2019. We collected data on age, sex, etiology, the neurological level of injury, the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale (AIS) scores on admission, and the neurological recovery results at discharge. RESULTS Dancing (58.6%), followed by water sports (14.7%) and taekwondo (4.2%) were the leading etiologies. Of the SCIs caused by dancing, 27.1% of the individuals had incomplete injury, and of these, 57.7% showed improved neurological function. However, 72.9% had complete injury, and these individuals did not show any improvement in neurological function. Individuals with dance-related SCIs graded as A and D according to the AIS, showed no significant improvement in their motor function scores at the time of discharge. While the scores of those graded B and C increased significantly, there were no significant differences in the light touch and pin touch scores. CONCLUSIONS The etiology of sports-related SCI in China has changed dramatically, with dancing replacing water sports as the primary cause of SCIs. Individuals with dance-related SCIs have a poor prognosis. In China, prevention of dance-related SCIs has become a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Li
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Function Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Liu
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Function Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-Wei Liu
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Function Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Song Wei
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun-Xiao Jia
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jian-Jun Li
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Spinal and Neural Function Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
- China Rehabilitation Science Institute, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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Zeng L, Wang YL, Shen XT, Zhang ZC, Huang GX, Alshorman J, Serebour TB, Tator CH, Sun TS, Zhang YZ, Guo XD. Guidelines for management of pediatric acute hyperextension spinal cord injury. Chin J Traumatol 2023; 26:2-7. [PMID: 36137934 PMCID: PMC9912180 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjtee.2022.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric acute hyperextension spinal cord injury (SCI) named as PAHSCI by us, is a special type of thoracolumbar SCI without radiographic abnormality and highly related to back-bend in dance training, which has been increasingly reported. At present, it has become the leading cause of SCI in children, and brings a heavy social and economic burden. Both domestic and foreign academic institutions and dance education organizations lack a correct understanding of PAHSCI and relevant standards, specifications or guidelines. In order to provide standardized guidance, the expert team formulated this guideline based on the principles of science and practicability, starting from the diagnosis, differential diagnosis, etiology, admission evaluation, treatment, complications and prevention. This guideline puts forward 23 recommendations for 14 related issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian Zeng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yu-Long Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Wuhan No. 1 Hospital, Wuhan Integrated TCM & Western Medicine Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xian-Tao Shen
- Department of Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery, Wuhan Children's Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430016, China
| | - Zhi-Cheng Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Seventh Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Gui-Xiong Huang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Jamal Alshorman
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Tracy Boakye Serebour
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Charles H. Tator
- Toronto Western Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tian-Sheng Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, The Seventh Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100700, China,Corresponding author. suntiansheng-@163.cm
| | - Ying-Ze Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050051, China.
| | - Xiao-Dong Guo
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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14
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Meng YF, Zhang JW, Tong AN, Tang HH, Bai JZ, Wang FY, Liu SJ, Lyu Z, Chen SZ, Liu JS, Hong Y. Prognosis of traumatic spinal cord injury in children: Follow-up of 86 patients. Chin J Traumatol 2023; 26:14-19. [PMID: 35691771 PMCID: PMC9912184 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjtee.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The long-term situation of children with spinal cord injury (SCI) was investigated, and suggestions for helping them better return to the society were provided. METHODS SCI patients less than 18 years old hospitalized in Beijing Boai Hospital from January 2011 to December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Information including motor function, complications, characteristic changes, self-care abilities, school attendance and social participation were collected by telephone interview and electronic questionnaire. All the answers were statistically analyzed. RESULTS A total of 86 cases were enrolled, 77 girls and 9 boys, with a median injury age of 6 years and 2 months. The follow-up time was 3-130 months. The main cause of trauma in these children was sport injury (66.3%), the thoracic spinal cord was involved the most (91.9%), and complete SCIs accounted for the majority (76.7%). In terms of complications, children with complete SCIs were more likely to have urinary incontinence, constipation and characteristic changes (p < 0.05); whereas the incomplete SCIs often have spasticity (p < 0.05). As to the daily living abilities, children with incomplete lumbar SCIs were more capable to accomplish personal hygiene, transfer, and bathing independently than those with complete injuries, or cervical/thoracic SCIs, respectively (p < 0.05). Moreover, children older than 9 years care more able to dress and transfer independently than the youngers (p < 0.05). Wheelchair users accounted for 84.9% and more than half of them were able to propel wheelchair independently, and those who move passively in wheelchairs were mostly introverted kids (p < 0.05). Almost all (93.8%) children with incomplete injuries were able to walk independently. Most (79.1%) children continued to attending school, and 41.9% participated in interest classes. Unfortunately, 67.4% of the children spent less time playing with their peers than before the injury. CONCLUSION SCIs impair physical structures and function of children, affect their independence in daily living, and restrict school attendance and social interaction. Comprehensive rehabilitation after injury is a systematic work. Medical staff and caregivers should not only pay attention to neurological function, but also help them improve self-care abilities. It is also important to balance rehabilitation training and school work and social participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Fei Meng
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100068, China
| | - Jun-Wei Zhang
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100068, China,Department of Spine and Spinal Cord Surgery, Beijing Boai Hospital, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, 100068, China
| | - An-Ni Tong
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Beijing Haidian Hospital, Beijing, 100080, China
| | - He-Hu Tang
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100068, China,Department of Spine and Spinal Cord Surgery, Beijing Boai Hospital, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, 100068, China
| | - Jin-Zhu Bai
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100068, China,Department of Spine and Spinal Cord Surgery, Beijing Boai Hospital, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, 100068, China
| | - Fang-Yong Wang
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100068, China,Department of Spine and Spinal Cord Surgery, Beijing Boai Hospital, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, 100068, China
| | - Shu-Jia Liu
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100068, China,Department of Spine and Spinal Cord Surgery, Beijing Boai Hospital, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, 100068, China
| | - Zhen Lyu
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100068, China,Department of Spine and Spinal Cord Surgery, Beijing Boai Hospital, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, 100068, China
| | - Shi-Zheng Chen
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100068, China,Department of Spine and Spinal Cord Surgery, Beijing Boai Hospital, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, 100068, China
| | - Jie-Sheng Liu
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100068, China,Department of Spine and Spinal Cord Surgery, Beijing Boai Hospital, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, 100068, China
| | - Yi Hong
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100068, China; Department of Spine and Spinal Cord Surgery, Beijing Boai Hospital, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, 100068, China.
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15
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Yadav A, Singh A, Verma R, Singh VK, Ojha BK, Chandra A, Srivastava C. Pediatric Cervical Spine Injuries. Asian J Neurosurg 2022; 17:557-562. [PMID: 36570758 PMCID: PMC9771637 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1757728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Pediatric cervical spine injuries are rare and account for 1 to 2% of all pediatric spine injuries. There is a paucity of data on pediatric cervical spine injuries in developing countries like India. The purpose of this study is to review and analyze our 5 years of experience with pediatric cervical spine injuries. Methods All the available medical records over the 5 years were reviewed retrospectively. The data was analyzed to know the epidemiology, mechanism of injury, injury patterns, management, and outcome. The patients were divided into two groups: 0 to 9 years and 10 to 18 years. Results Seventy-five eligible records were included in our study. The incidence of cervical spine injuries was significantly lower in younger children than the older ones ( p < 0.042). The most common mechanism of injury was fall from height: 33 (44%) patients followed by road traffic accidents: 27 (36%) patients. The involvement of the upper cervical spine was significantly higher in younger children ( p < 0.001). Fractures with subluxation were the most common pattern of injury, observed in 35 (47%) patients. However, fractures with subluxation were uncommon in younger children compared with older children ( p < 0.04). Spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality (SCIWORA) was observed in 42% of younger children compared with 8% of older children ( p < 0.02). Thirty (40%) patients were managed surgically; anterior cervical corpectomy with fusion was the most commonly performed procedure in 19 (63%) patients. The overall mortality was 20%. Conclusion The results of our study revealed predominant involvement of the upper cervical spine in children younger than 10 years of age. SCIWORA was documented in both the age groups with a significantly higher incidence in younger children. The instrumentation and fusion techniques in children are safe; however, developing pediatric spine needs special considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Awdhesh Yadav
- Department of Neurosurgery, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India,Address for correspondence Awdhesh Yadav, MS, MCh Department of Neurosurgery5th Floor, Shatabdi Hospital Phase-2, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226003India
| | - Aneeta Singh
- PDCC (Neuro-anesthesia), King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rajat Verma
- Department of Neurosurgery, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vijay K. Singh
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Bal K. Ojha
- Department of Neurosurgery, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anil Chandra
- Department of Neurosurgery, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Chhitij Srivastava
- Department of Neurosurgery, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Figueiro Longo MG, Jaimes C, Machado F, Delgado J, Gee MS. Pediatric Emergency MRI. Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am 2022; 30:533-552. [PMID: 35995478 DOI: 10.1016/j.mric.2022.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
There is an overall increase in the use of imaging in the pediatric emergency room setting, which is accompanied by a reduction in computed tomography examinations performed mainly due to the increased awareness of the risks of ionizing radiation. Advances in MRI technology have led to shortened scan time, decreased motion sensitivity, and improved spatial resolution. With increased access to MRI in the emergency room setting, the goal of this article is to review major applications of MR in pediatric emergency room patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gabriela Figueiro Longo
- Division of Pediatric Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Camilo Jaimes
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Fedel Machado
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jorge Delgado
- Division of MSK Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Michael S Gee
- Division of Pediatric Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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17
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Zeng J, Jiang H, Zhuo Y, Xu Y, Deng Z. A case report on a child with fracture and dislocation of the upper cervical spine accompanied by spinal cord injury. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e29717. [PMID: 35905208 PMCID: PMC9333534 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000029717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE This study describes an 8-year-old boy with a C2 fracture and dislocation with a left C2-C3 articular process interlocking and spinal cord injury who underwent open reduction and internal fixation using the posterior cervical approach and achieved satisfactory results. PATIENT CONCERNS An 8-year-old boy underwent an emergency transfer from a previous hospital after a car accident. DIAGNOSES Axial fracture and dislocation with spinal cord injury (American Spinal Injury Association grade C), traumatic shock, brain contusion, intracranial hemorrhage, mandibular fracture, pulmonary contusion and hemorrhage, left vertebral artery stenosis, and multiple fractures throughout the body. Radiological examination revealed a fracture of the lower edge of the C2 vertebral body, fourth-degree anterior spondylolisthesis of the C2 vertebral body, interlocking of the left C2-C3 articular processes, widening of the C2-C3 vertebral space, and occlusion of the V1 and 2 segments of the left vertebral artery. INTERVENTIONS The boy was immediately intubated and transferred to the pediatric intensive care unit for rescue treatment. However, the reduction was unsuccessful with 2 weeks of cranial traction. Thus, an open reduction was performed under general anesthesia. One month after the surgery, the boy was discharged from the hospital on foot after rehabilitation treatment. OUTCOMES The boy was discharged from the hospital 1 month after surgery. At the 8-month follow-up, a radiological examination showed that the corrected C2 vertebral body fracture and dislocation were satisfactorily reduced, and the spinal cord was adequately decompressed. The internal fixation position was also good, and the spinal sequence had recovered well. In summary, except for the muscle strength of the right upper limb, which was slightly worse, the other clinical symptoms were significantly improved. LESSONS In treating cervical fracture and dislocation with unilateral facet lock, the posterior open reduction of pedicle screw and lateral mass screw internal fixation achieved satisfactory results. Consequently, treating complex cervical spine injuries in children requires an accurate diagnosis and careful treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Zeng
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, Guizhou Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hua Jiang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, Guizhou Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yingquan Zhuo
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, Guizhou Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongkang Xu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhigang Deng
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, Guizhou Province, People’s Republic of China
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18
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Decker G, Leo A. Transient Hemiplegia in a Collegiate Ice Hockey Player. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2022; 101:e95-e97. [PMID: 35594409 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT An otherwise healthy 21-yr-old female hockey player sustained a cervical whiplash injury during competition after being checked and falling backward onto the ice. Initial assessment revealed right-sided hemiparesis and sensory abnormalities. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography of the brain and spine were unremarkable. Most of her right upper limb symptoms resolved in 24 hrs, with complete resolution in 5 days. Over 6 wks, she regained right lower limb strength with mild residual sensory deficits. Repeat magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine was unremarkable. At 18 wks, sensory symptoms resolved, with the exception of mildly decreased lower limb proprioception. The athlete was cleared to return to noncontact drills but not competition. The differential diagnosis included transient quadriplegia and/or hemiplegia ("cervical cord neuropraxia"), which typically resolves in 48 hrs, and incomplete spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality, which is more likely to present with persistent symptoms. This case includes features of both diagnoses, making management challenging as return to play guidelines are nonspecific. Further research is needed to develop well-defined guidelines for spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality and cervical cord neuropraxia return-to-play decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Decker
- From the Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Orthopaedics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri (GD); and Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri (AL)
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19
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Wang Y, Zeng L, Zhu F, Huang G, Wan Y, Yao S, Chen K, Guo X. Acute hyperextension myelopathy in children: Radiographic predictors of clinical improvement. Spinal Cord 2022; 60:498-503. [PMID: 35046538 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-021-00739-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective case series SETTING: Three hospitals in China. OBJECTIVE Previous research indicates that only neurological status on admission determines prognosis of acute hyperextension myelopathy (AHM). The object of this study is to analyze other unfavorable predictors of AHM in children. METHODS The clinical data of children with AHM were retrospectively analyzed. The ASIA impairment scale (AIS) grade was recorded upon admission and at last follow-up. Intramedullary lesion length (IMLL) was measured in the sagittal T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) within two weeks after onset; gadolinium enhancement in the cord was recorded for each patient. Relationships among AIS grade, IMLL, gadolinium enhancement in the cord, and clinical improvement were assessed. RESULTS A total of 33 patients were included in this retrospective study. IMLL between complete and incomplete injury was significantly different (p < 0.01) in the subacute stage, and no difference was observed in the acute stage. Correlation analysis revealed that AIS grade on admission (r = 0.906, p < 0.001) was significantly positively correlated with clinical improvement. IMLL (r = -0.608, p < 0.001) and abnormal gadolinium enhancement (r = -0.816, p < 0.001) in the cord in the subacute stage were significantly negatively correlated with clinical improvement. There were no associations between IMLL in the acute stage and clinical improvement (r = -0.248, p = 0.242). The statistically significant predictors of clinical improvement were AIS grade on admission, IMLL in the subacute stage, and abnormal gadolinium enhancement. CONCLUSION IMLL in the subacute stage and abnormal gadolinium enhancement in the cord are two other prognostic predictors of AHM in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulong Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Lian Zeng
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Fengzhao Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Affiliated Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400037, China
| | - Guixiong Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yizhou Wan
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Sheng Yao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Kaifang Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xiaodong Guo
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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20
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Park YS. Complex Pathophysiology of Abusive Head Trauma with Poor Neurological Outcome in Infants. J Korean Neurosurg Soc 2022; 65:385-396. [PMID: 35468708 PMCID: PMC9082116 DOI: 10.3340/jkns.2021.0289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT) in infants, especially acute subdural hematoma, has an extremely poor outcome. The most decisive and important finding is the appearance of a widespread low-density area on head computed tomography. This phenomenon was traditionally thought to be caused by cerebral ischemia. However, many other pathophysiological abnormalities have been found to be intricately involved. Recent studies have found that status epilepticus and hyperperfusion injures are the major causes. Another serious problem associated with AHT is cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA). Many infants are reported to visit to the hospital with CPA, and its pathophysiology has not been fully elucidated. This paper examines the background of these pathological conditions and associated factors and elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms resulting in poor outcomes in AHT. In addition to the intensity of assault on the head, the peculiar pathophysiological characteristics in infants, as well as the social background specific to child abuse, are found to be associated with poor outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Soo Park
- Department of Neurosurgery and Children's Medical Center, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
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21
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Faro SH, Saksena S, Krisa L, Middleton DM, Alizadeh M, Finsterbusch J, Flanders AE, Talekar K, Mulcahey MJ, Mohamed FB. DTI of chronic spinal cord injury in children without MRI abnormalities (SCIWOMR) and with pathology on MRI and comparison to severity of motor impairment. Spinal Cord 2022; 60:457-464. [PMID: 35379960 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-022-00770-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN This investigation was a cohort study that included: 36 typically developing (TD) children and 19 children with spinal cord lesions who underwent spinal cord MRI. OBJECTIVES To investigate diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) cervical and thoracic spinal cord changes in pediatric patients that have clinically traumatic and non-traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) without MR (SCIWOMR) abnormalities. SETTING Thomas Jefferson University, Temple University, Shriners Hospitals for Children all in Philadelphia, USA. METHODS 36 TD children and 19 children with spinal cord lesions that represent either a chronic traumatic acquired SCI or chronic non-traumatic SCI (≥6 months post injury), age range, 6-16 years who underwent cervical and thoracic spinal cord MRI in 2014-2017. Additionally DTI was correlated to clinical American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS). RESULTS Both SCIWOMR and MRI positive (+) groups showed abnormal FA and RD DTI values in the adjacent MRI-normal appearing segments of cephalad and caudal spinal cord compared to TD. The FA values demonstrated perilesional abnormal DTI findings in the middle and proximal segments of the cephalad and caudal cord in the SCIWOMR AIS A/B group compared to SCIWOMR AIS C/D group. CONCLUSIONS We found DTI changes in children with SCIWOMR with different causes of spinal lesions. We also investigated the relationship between DTI and clinical AIS scores. This study further examined the potential diagnostic value of DTI and should be translatable to adults with spinal cord lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott H Faro
- Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University, 909 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA.
| | - Sona Saksena
- Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University, 909 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Laura Krisa
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Thomas Jefferson University, 901 Walnut Street, 6th floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA.,Department of Physical Therapy, Thomas Jefferson University, 901 Walnut Street, 5th floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Devon M Middleton
- Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University, 909 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Mahdi Alizadeh
- Department of Neurosurgery, Thomas Jefferson University, 909 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | | | - Adam E Flanders
- Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University, 909 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Kiran Talekar
- Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University, 909 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - M J Mulcahey
- Department of Physical Therapy, Thomas Jefferson University, 901 Walnut Street, 5th floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Feroze B Mohamed
- Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University, 909 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
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22
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Mistry D, Munjal H, Ellika S, Chaturvedi A. Pediatric spine trauma: A comprehensive review. Clin Imaging 2022; 87:61-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2022.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Shankar G, Garg R, Sarangi B, Walimbe A. Complete traumatic transection of thoracic spinal cord in a pediatric patient. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC CRITICAL CARE 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/jpcc.jpcc_7_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Liu G, Jiang W, Tang X, Tan S, Zhang M, Tao L, Xiao N, Chen Y. Spina Bifida Occulta Is a Risk Factor for Spinal Cord Injury Without Fracture or Dislocation for Children Performing a Backbend During Dance. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:903507. [PMID: 35783306 PMCID: PMC9240226 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.903507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the clinical features and outcomes of children with spinal cord injury (SCI) without fracture or dislocation. METHODS The clinical data of children with SCI without fracture or dislocation in this retrospective study were collected in Chongqing, China (January 2010 to December 2021). We collected patient demographics at admission including age, gender, cause, level, and severity of the injury in admission and complications. Reports from radiologic imaging were reviewed to identify spina bifida occulta (SBO). Neurological function was evaluated using the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale (AIS) for an SCI. RESULTS A total of 74 children with SCI (male, 27%; female, 73%; male-to-female ratio, 1:2.7; average age, 5.7 years) were included. The main cause of injury was backbend during the dance (34 patients, 45.9%, including 2 patients who hugged back falling backward), followed by traffic accidents (17 patients, 23%). Children with backbend-related SCI were older than other children (6.9 vs. 4.9 years old, P < 0.001). When reviewing all radiological images, it was found that 20 (27%) patients with SCI had SBO. The proportion of SCI with SBO caused by backbend was considerably higher than those caused by non-backbend (41.2 vs. 15%, P = 0.012). The AIS were 22 (29.7%), 4 (5.4%), 8 (10.8%), 31 (41.9%), and 9 (12.2%) in A, B, C, D, and E, respectively. The prognosis was poorer in the backbend during dancing than other causes of injury (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION This study showed that backbend during the dance was the main cause of children's SCI without fracture or dislocation in Chongqing, China. The prognosis was poorer in those children than in other causes of injury. Meanwhile, we have established an association between SBO and SCI for children performing a backbend during the dance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqing Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Rehabilitation, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiang Tang
- Department of Rehabilitation, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shali Tan
- Department of Pediatrics, The People's Hospital of Fengjie, Chongqing, China
| | - Mingqiang Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Liang Tao
- Department of Rehabilitation, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Nong Xiao
- Department of Rehabilitation, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuxia Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Wang Y, Zeng L, Huang G, Guo X. Letter to the Editor: Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury Without Radiographic Abnormality: The Beijing Experience. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2021; 46:E1225. [PMID: 34468436 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000004210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yulong Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Bravar G, Luchesa Smith A, Siddiqui A, Lim M. Acute Myelopathy in Childhood. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 8:1055. [PMID: 34828768 PMCID: PMC8618498 DOI: 10.3390/children8111055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Acute myelopathy presenting in childhood can be clinically classified based on the location of injury (with resulting spinal syndrome) or the cause (broadly traumatic or non-traumatic). Types of nontraumatic myelopathy include ischaemic, infectious, inflammatory, nutritional, and metabolic causes, some of which may be part of a systemic illness such as systemic lupus erythematosus or a demyelinating disease such as multiple sclerosis. Nonaccidental injury is an important consideration in cases of traumatic myelopathy, which may often be associated with other injuries. Assessment should include neuroimaging of the brain and spinal cord, with further investigations targeted based on the most likely differential diagnoses; for example, a child with suspected demyelinating disease may require specialist cerebrospinal fluid and serological testing. Management also will differ based on the cause of the myelopathy, with several of these treatments more efficacious with earlier initiation, necessitating prompt recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of children presenting with symptoms of a myelopathy. Important components of holistic care may include physiotherapy and occupational therapy, with multidisciplinary team involvement as required (for example psychological support or specialist bowel and bladder teams).
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bravar
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Santa Maria della Misericordia, 33100 Udine, Italy;
| | | | - Ata Siddiqui
- Children’s Neurosciences, Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 7EH, UK;
- Department of Neuroradiology, King’s College Hospital, London SE5 9RS, UK
| | - Ming Lim
- Children’s Neurosciences, Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 7EH, UK;
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London SE5 9NU, UK
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Abstract
Complaints related to the neck are common following mild pediatric trauma. Although significant cervical spine injuries are most often seen and evaluated in the emergency room or inpatient setting, the primary care provider is faced with the evaluation of lower acuity complaints. We provide a review to assist with the efficient evaluation of these patients to facilitate decisions regarding return to play, the need for imaging, and need for referral to subspecialty providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Jea
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, 1000 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 4000, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
| | - Ahmed Belal
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, 355 West 16th Street, Suite 5100, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Mohamed A Zaazoue
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, 355 West 16th Street, Suite 5100, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Jonathan Martin
- Division of Neurosurgery, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, 282 Washington Street, Hartford, CT 06106, USA
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de Brito Chagas J, Cancelinha C, Pais RP, Costa C. Spinal cord ischaemic injury while playing in a playground. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:14/7/e242155. [PMID: 34226254 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-242155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord ischaemia is a rare condition in children in which imaging diagnosis can be difficult and treatment guidelines are not well established. We describe a case of a previously healthy 13-year-old girl admitted to the emergency department with an acute flaccid paralysis of the lower limbs, abdominal and dorsal pain, and bladder dysfunction. A few hours earlier, she had been playing on a swing with hyperextension and an arched back position. Spinal cord MRI was normal in the first hours, but ischaemic signs were described in a second examination performed some hours later. We discuss the extensive investigation for differential diagnosis and the management of this case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana de Brito Chagas
- Paediatric Medical Service, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Candida Cancelinha
- Paediatric Medical Service, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Paediatric University Clinic, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui Pedro Pais
- Medical Imaging Service, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carmen Costa
- Neuropaediatric Unit, Child Development Centre, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Surfer Myelopathy in Children: A Case Series Study. World Neurosurg 2021; 148:e227-e241. [PMID: 33418121 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.12.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The cause of surfer myelopathy remains enigmatic and long-term follow-up outcomes are not well documented. In the present study, the mechanisms underlying surfer myelopathy in children are analyzed and the long-term follow-up outcomes are reported. METHODS Clinical data from 3 institutions were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were assessed using the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) on admission and at follow-up. The mechanisms were studied by analyzing patients' medical history, magnetic resonance imaging, and magnetic resonance angiography. The prognosis of long-term follow-up was summarized. RESULTS Thirty-one children were diagnosed with surfer myelopathy. Intramedullary high-intensity T2 signal from mid to lower thoracic level to conus was found during the acute stage. Follow-up magnetic resonance imaging in the subacute stage showed cranial progression of the T2 hyperintensity up to 1-10 vertebral segments, and no neurologic deterioration was found. Intramedullary lesion length between the complete and incomplete injury was significantly different (P < 0.01) in the subacute phase. Flow voids around nerve roots and in the epidural space were detected in 18 patients and 15 patients, respectively, on axial T2-weighted imaging. Enlarged tortuous veins were found in 3 of 6 patients who underwent spinal magnetic resonance angiography, which were discontinuous around nerve root. During long-term follow-up, no patients with AIS grade A recovered, and atrophic cord was observed in the later stage in 14 patients. Patients with incomplete injury had different recoveries. CONCLUSIONS Surfer myelopathy in children is caused by spinal venous hypertension. The AIS grade on admission is a predictor of prognosis.
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Rodrigues M, Beça G, Almeida A, Natário I, Vilabril F, Pereira M, Barreto J, Dias L, Gandarez F. Spinal cord infarction in children: Can gymnastics be a cause? J Pediatr Rehabil Med 2021; 14:97-101. [PMID: 33164960 DOI: 10.3233/prm-200684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spinal cord infarction (SCI) in children is rare and difficult to diagnose. Fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE) is probably the underlying cause for some unexplained cases of spinal cord infarcts. Abrupt back pain followed by a progressive syndrome of myelopathy appears to be the typical presentation, with a close temporal relationship between the onset of symptoms and preceding minor trauma. Supportive care and rehabilitation are essential in the treatment of children with SCI. CASE REPORT A previously healthy 12-year-old girl who practiced acrobatic gymnastics was admitted to a rehabilitation centre 14 days after being diagnosed with an acute anterior SCI with no identified cause. Sensory modality of pin prick and light touch were impaired, with the former more significantly affected. She was not able to run and had difficulty on monopodal standing and performing motor sequencing. Additionally, she mentioned ineffective cough along with flatus incontinence and normal bladder function. After a 4-week multidisciplinary rehabilitation program her neurologic deficits improved. DISCUSSION Given the patient's age and clinical presentation, a literature review led to the consideration of FCE as the most likely definitive diagnosis. It should be recognized as a cause of SCI especially in those involved in sport activities, even if previous trauma is denied.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gustavo Beça
- Centro de Reabilitação do Norte, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Ana Almeida
- Centro de Reabilitação do Norte, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Inês Natário
- Centro de Reabilitação do Norte, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Filipa Vilabril
- Serviço de Medicina Física e de Reabilitação, Centro Hospitalar de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | | | - José Barreto
- Serviço de Medicina Física e de Reabilitação, Centro Hospitalar de Entre Douro e Vouga, Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal
| | - Leonor Dias
- Serviço de Neurologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Fátima Gandarez
- Centro de Reabilitação do Norte, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
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Alas H, Pierce KE, Brown A, Bortz C, Naessig S, Ahmad W, Moses MJ, O'Connell B, Maglaras C, Diebo BG, Paulino CB, Buckland AJ, Passias PG. Sports-related Cervical Spine Fracture and Spinal Cord Injury: A Review of Nationwide Pediatric Trends. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2021; 46:22-28. [PMID: 32991512 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000003718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. OBJECTIVE Assess trends in sports-related cervical spine trauma using a pediatric inpatient database. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Injuries sustained from sports participation may include cervical spine trauma such as fractures and spinal cord injury (SCI). Large database studies analyzing sports-related cervical trauma in the pediatric population are currently lacking. METHODS The Kid Inpatient Database was queried for patients with external causes of injury secondary to sports-related activities from 2003 to 2012. Patients were further grouped for cervical spine injury (CSI) type, including C1-4 and C5-7 fracture with/without spinal cord injury (SCI), dislocation, and SCI without radiographic abnormality (SCIWORA). Patients were grouped by age into children (4-9), pre-adolescents (Pre, 10-13), and adolescents (14-17). Kruskall-Wallis tests with post-hoc Mann-Whitney U's identified differences in CSI type across age groups and sport type. Logistic regression found predictors of TBI and specific cervical injuries. RESULTS A total of 38,539 patients were identified (12.76 years, 24.5% F). Adolescents had the highest rate of sports injuries per year (P < 0.001). Adolescents had the highest rate of any type of CSI, including C1-4 and C5-7 fracture with and without SCI, dislocation, and SCIWORA (all P < 0.001). Adolescence increased odds for C1-4 fracture w/o SCI 3.18×, C1-4 fx w/ SCI by 7.57×, C5-7 fx w/o SCI 4.11×, C5-7 w/SCI 3.63×, cervical dislocation 1.7×, and cervical SCIWORA 2.75×, all P < 0.05. Football injuries rose from 5.83% in 2009 to 9.14% in 2012 (P < 0.001), and were associated with more SCIWORA (1.6% vs. 1.0%, P = 0.012), and football injuries increased odds of SCI by 1.56×. Concurrent TBI was highest in adolescents at 58.4% (pre: 26.6%, child: 4.9%, P < 0.001), and SCIWORA was a significant predictor for concurrent TBI across all sports (odds ratio: 2.35 [1.77-3.11], P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Adolescent athletes had the highest rates of upper/lower cervical fracture, dislocation, and SCIWORA. Adolescence and SCIWORA were significant predictors of concurrent TBI across sports. The increased prevalence of CSI with age sheds light on the growing concern for youth sports played at a competitive level, and supports recently updated regulations aimed at decreasing youth athletic injuries. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haddy Alas
- Division of Spinal Surgery/Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurosurgery, NYU Langone Medical Center, NY Spine Institute, New York, NY
| | - Katherine E Pierce
- Division of Spinal Surgery/Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurosurgery, NYU Langone Medical Center, NY Spine Institute, New York, NY
| | - Avery Brown
- Division of Spinal Surgery/Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurosurgery, NYU Langone Medical Center, NY Spine Institute, New York, NY
| | - Cole Bortz
- Division of Spinal Surgery/Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurosurgery, NYU Langone Medical Center, NY Spine Institute, New York, NY
| | - Sara Naessig
- Division of Spinal Surgery/Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurosurgery, NYU Langone Medical Center, NY Spine Institute, New York, NY
| | - Waleed Ahmad
- Division of Spinal Surgery/Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurosurgery, NYU Langone Medical Center, NY Spine Institute, New York, NY
| | - Michael J Moses
- Department of Orthopaedics, NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Brooke O'Connell
- Department of Orthopaedics, NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Constance Maglaras
- Department of Orthopaedics, NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Bassel G Diebo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, SUNY Downstate, New York, NY
| | - Carl B Paulino
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, SUNY Downstate, New York, NY
| | - Aaron J Buckland
- Department of Orthopaedics, NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Peter G Passias
- Division of Spinal Surgery/Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurosurgery, NYU Langone Medical Center, NY Spine Institute, New York, NY
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Konovalov N, Peev N, Zileli M, Sharif S, Kaprovoy S, Timonin S. Pediatric Cervical Spine Injuries and SCIWORA: WFNS Spine Committee Recommendations. Neurospine 2020; 17:797-808. [PMID: 33401857 PMCID: PMC7788416 DOI: 10.14245/ns.2040404.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical trauma in children have variations from the adults mainly due to anatomic differences. An optimal diagnostic and treatment strategy is critical, particularly when there is a lack of standardized protocols for the management of such cases. This review paper examines the diagnostic and treatment options of pediatric cervical trauma and Spinal Cord Injury Without Radiographic Abnormality (SCIWORA). A literature search for the last 10 years were conducted using key words. Case reports, experimental studies, papers other than English language were excluded. Up-to-date information on pediatric cervical trauma and SCIWORA were reviewed and statements were produced to reach a consensus in 2 separate consensus meeting of WFNS Spine Committee. The statements were voted and reached a consensus using Delphi method. This review reflects different aspects of contemporary pediatric cervical trauma decision-making and treatment, and SCIWORA. The mainstay of SCIWORA treatment is nonsurgical with immobilization, avoidance of risky activities. Prognosis generally depends on the initial neurological status and magnetic resonance imaging. Due to a significant discrepancy in the literature on diagnostic and management, future randomized controlled trials are needed to aid in generating standardized protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay Konovalov
- Burdenko Institute Department of Neurosurgery, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Nikolay Peev
- Department of Neurosurgery, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Northern Ireland, Belfast, UK
| | - Mehmet Zileli
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Salman Sharif
- Neurosurgery Liaquat National Hospital & Medical College, Karachi Pakistan, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Stanislav Kaprovoy
- Burdenko National Medical Research Center of Neurosurgery, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Stanislav Timonin
- Burdenko National Medical Research Center of Neurosurgery, Moscow, Russian Federation
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Morshid A, Jadiry HA, Chaudhry U, Raghuram K. Pediatric spinal cord infarction following a minor trauma: a case report. Spinal Cord Ser Cases 2020; 6:95. [PMID: 33046690 DOI: 10.1038/s41394-020-00344-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pediatric spinal cord infarction is a rare entity that presents a diagnostic challenge at the emergency department. Ischemic spinal cord infarction can occur in the setting of trauma, cardiovascular malformation, or postoperatively. We report a case of anterior spinal artery infarction following seemingly minor trauma in an otherwise healthy 14-year-old male. CASE PRESENTATION A 14-year-old male presented with unprovoked sudden-onset stabbing back pain earlier that day. The patient then demonstrated bilateral lower extremities weakness while at the emergency department. After extensive diagnostic workup, the patient was diagnosed with anterior spinal artery territory infarction involving the thoracic spinal cord. Minor trauma to the thoracic spinal cord was detected on imaging and was believed to be the culprit of this event. DISCUSSION Given the rarity of spinal cord ischemia, a high index of suspicion and extensive workup of patients presenting with clinical weakness are needed for accurate diagnosis and to avoid the eventual poor outcome. With so few reports in the literature regarding spinal cord ischemia in the pediatric population, accurate diagnosis is often delayed until after irreversible events have already taken place. Our case report of anterior spinal artery distribution thoracic cord infarct following a minor trauma was diagnosed by axial thin-slice DWI MRI with an otherwise negative workup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Morshid
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
| | - Huda Al Jadiry
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Umar Chaudhry
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Karthikram Raghuram
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
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Jordan RW, Beckmann NM, Johnston JH, Johnston SK, Zhang X, Chinapuvvula NR. Characterization of all-terrain vehicle-related thoracolumbar spine injury patterns in children using the AOSpine classification system. Emerg Radiol 2020; 27:383-391. [PMID: 32103381 DOI: 10.1007/s10140-020-01762-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate thoracolumbar spine injury patterns, demographics, and clinical characteristics in pediatric patients following all-terrain vehicle-related trauma. METHODS A retrospective review of patients 0-17 years old admitted to a level I trauma center following an ATV-related incident from 2004 to 2013 was performed. Thoracolumbar spine injury patterns, accident mechanism, driver/passenger status, and demographic and clinical data were compared between patients with and without a spine injury. RESULTS Of 456 pediatric patients involved in ATV-related trauma, 36 sustained one or more thoracolumbar spine injuries (7.9%). These patients tended to be older, taller, heavier, and had a higher BMI. ATV rollover was the major statistically significant mechanism of injury to cause spine fractures (61%). Patients with spine injuries had twice the hospital length of stay compared with those without (4 days vs. 2 days, P = 0.003). Nonstructural spine injuries (A0) were the most common type of injury (49.1%), followed by wedge-compression fractures (A1) (41.1%). In patients with a thoracolumbar spine injury, there was a mean of 3.11 spine injuries per child. Four (10%) patients with thoracolumbar spine fractures also sustained a cervical spine fracture. CONCLUSION Once a thoracolumbar spine injury has been detected in a patient, the entire spinal column should be scrutinized because there is a high likelihood for additional injuries throughout the spine. Younger pediatric patients (≤ 8 years old) exhibit a spine fracture pattern distinct from that of older children who have a mature osseous-ligamentous complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger W Jordan
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Imaging, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, 2.130B, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Nicholas M Beckmann
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Imaging, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, 2.130B, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Jennifer H Johnston
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Imaging, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, 2.130B, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sean K Johnston
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Imaging, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, 2.130B, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, 2.130B, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research/Design Core, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6410 Fannin, UTPB 1100.08, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Naga R Chinapuvvula
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Imaging, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, 2.130B, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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Brauge D, Plas B, Vinchon M, Charni S, Di Rocco F, Sacko O, Mrozek S, Sales de Gauzy J. Multicenter study of 37 pediatric patients with SCIWORA or other spinal cord injury without associated bone lesion. Orthop Traumatol Surg Res 2020; 106:167-171. [PMID: 31786134 DOI: 10.1016/j.otsr.2019.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pure traumatic spinal cord injury (without associated bone lesion) are encountered in pediatric accidentology, the most typical being spinal cord injury without radiological abnormality (SCIWORA). The present study reports a multicenter series of under-18-year-olds admitted for traumatic medullary lesion. The objectives were: (1) to describe the causes of pure spinal cord injuries in children in France and their clinical presentation; (2) to identify any prognostic factors; and (3) to describe their medical management in France. PATIENTS AND METHOD A multicenter retrospective study was conducted in 3 pediatric spine pathology reference centers. Files of 37 patients with confirmed spinal cord injury between January 1988 and June 2017 were analyzed: SCIWORA (n=30), myelopathy associated with severe cranial trauma (n=2), and obstetric trauma (n=5). Accident causes, associated lesions, initial Frankel grade, level of clinical spinal cord injury, initial MRI findings, type of treatment and neurology results at last follow-up were collated. The main endpoint was neurologic recovery, defined by improvement of at least 1 Frankel grade. RESULTS Causes comprised 17 road accidents, 11 sports accidents, 5 obstetric lesions and 4 falls. Mean follow-up was 502 days. The rate of at least partial neurologic recovery was 20/30 in SCIWORA, 0/5 in obstetric trauma, and 0/4 in case of associated intracranial lesion. In SCIWORA, factors associated with recovery comprised age, accident type, and absence of initial MRI lesion. DISCUSSION We report a large series of pediatric spinal cord injury without associated bone lesion. This is a potentially serious pathology, in which prognosis is mainly related to age and trauma mechanism. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV, case series.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Brauge
- Pôle neuroscience - neurochirurgie (neuroscience - neurosurgery cluster), faculté de médecine (faculty of medicine), hôpital de Purpan (Purpan hospital), 31059 Toulouse, France; Arts et métier ParisTech, institut de biomécanique humaine George Charpak (Institute of human biomechanics), 75013 Paris, France.
| | - Benjamin Plas
- Pôle neuroscience - neurochirurgie (neuroscience - neurosurgery cluster), faculté de médecine (faculty of medicine), hôpital de Purpan (Purpan hospital), 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Mathieu Vinchon
- Service de neurochirurgie (Department of neurosurgery), hôpital universitaire Roger Salengro (university hospital), 59037 Lille, France
| | - Saloua Charni
- Pôle neuroscience - neurochirurgie (neuroscience - neurosurgery cluster), faculté de médecine (faculty of medicine), hôpital de Purpan (Purpan hospital), 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Federico Di Rocco
- Service de neurochirurgie pédiatrique (Department of pediatric neurosurgery), hôpital femme mère-enfant (Women, mother, child hospital), hospice civil de Lyon (Lyon hospitals), 69003 Lyon, France
| | - Oumar Sacko
- Pôle neuroscience - neurochirurgie (neuroscience - neurosurgery cluster), faculté de médecine (faculty of medicine), hôpital de Purpan (Purpan hospital), 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Ségolène Mrozek
- Service d'anesthésie réanimation (Department of anesthesiology and critical care), faculté de médecine (faculty of medicine), hôpital de Purpan (Purpan hospital), 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Jérôme Sales de Gauzy
- Service de chirurgie orthopédique et traumatologique (Department of orthopedic and trauma surgery), hôpital des enfants (Children's hospital), hôpital universitaire (university hospital), 31059 Toulouse, France
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Katar S, Aydin Ozturk P, Ozel M, Cevik S, Evran S, Baran O, Akkaya E, Asena M, Cetin A. Pediatric Spinal Traumas. Pediatr Neurosurg 2020; 55:86-91. [PMID: 32580195 DOI: 10.1159/000508332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although childhood trauma is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, the incidence of spinal trauma is significantly lower in children than in adults. Existing studies on pediatric spinal trauma (PST) largely concern cervical trauma because of its frequency of incidence. We aimed to obtain more information by examining all types of spinal trauma, and evaluating factors such as age, trauma type, injury type, and American Spinal Injury Association score and comparing them with data from the literature. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed 30 pediatric trauma patients with spinal pathology confirmed by spinal imaging. RESULTS The mean age was 166.4 months. Mean age for each mechanism of injury was: 142.7 months for a simple fall, 149.0 months for injury involving a foreign object, 163.5 months for a fall from a height, and 181.6 months for traffic accidents. There was no statistically significant difference in mean age for different mechanisms of injury (p = 0.372). The levels of the spinal injuries were: lumbar 53.3% (16), thoracic 26.6% (8), and cervical 20.0% (6). Mean age for each level of spinal injury was 113.3 months for the cervical area, 172.2 months for the thoracic area, and 183.3 months for the lumbar area. Mean age was found to be statistically significant (p = 0.000). DISCUSSION PST is uncommon and the type of trauma and the spinal level affected varies with age. Cervical trauma predominates at younger ages, but adult-like traumas begin to occur with increasing age. It should be considered that the risk of developing neurological deficits is higher in pediatric patients than in adults, and the risk of multisystem injury is also high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salim Katar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Balikesir University, Balikesir, Turkey
| | - Pinar Aydin Ozturk
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Health Sciences, Diyarbakır Gazi Yasargil Education and Research Hospital, Diyarbakır, Turkey,
| | - Mehmet Ozel
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Diyarbakır Gazi Yasargil Education and Research Hospital, Diyarbakır, Turkey
| | - Serdar Cevik
- Department of Neurosurgery, Memorial Sisli Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sevket Evran
- Department of Neurosurgery, Haseki Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Oguz Baran
- Department of Neurosurgery, Haseki Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Enes Akkaya
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sisli Etfal Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Muhammet Asena
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Health Sciences, Diyarbakır Gazi Yasargil Education and Research Hospital, Diyarbakır, Turkey
| | - Abdurrahman Cetin
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Health Sciences, Diyarbakır Gazi Yasargil Education and Research Hospital, Diyarbakır, Turkey
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Characteristics associated with spine injury on magnetic resonance imaging in children evaluated for abusive head trauma. Pediatr Radiol 2020; 50:83-97. [PMID: 31901991 PMCID: PMC7223732 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-019-04517-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spine injuries are increasingly common in the evaluation for abusive head trauma (AHT), but additional information is needed to explore the utility of spine MRI in AHT evaluations and to ensure an accurate understanding of injury mechanism. OBJECTIVE To assess the incidence of spine injury on MRI in children evaluated for AHT, and to correlate spine MRI findings with clinical characteristics. MATERIALS AND METHODS We identified children younger than 5 years who were evaluated for AHT with spine MRI. Abuse likelihood was determined a priori by expert consensus. We blindly reviewed spine MRIs and compared spinal injury, abuse likelihood, patient demographics, severity of brain injury, presence of retinal hemorrhages, and pattern of head injury between children with and without spine injury. RESULTS Forty-five of 76 (59.2%) children had spine injury. Spine injury was associated with more severe injury (longer intensive care stays [P<0.001], lower initial mental status [P=0.01] and longer ventilation times [P=0.001]). Overall abuse likelihood and spine injury were not associated. Spinal subdural hemorrhage was the only finding associated with a combination of retinal hemorrhages (P=0.01), noncontact head injuries (P=0.008) and a diagnosis of AHT (P<0.05). Spinal subdural hemorrhage was associated with other spine injury (P=0.004) but not with intracranial hemorrhage (P=0.28). CONCLUSION Spinal injury is seen in most children evaluated for AHT and might be clinically and forensically valuable. Spinal subdural hemorrhage might support a mechanism of severe acceleration/deceleration head injury and a diagnosis of AHT.
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Liang QC, Yang B, Song YH, Gao PP, Xia ZY, Bao N. Real spinal cord injury without radiologic abnormality in pediatric patient with tight filum terminale following minor trauma: a case report. BMC Pediatr 2019; 19:513. [PMID: 31870344 PMCID: PMC6927174 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-019-1894-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality (SCIWORA) is defined as having “clinical symptoms of traumatic myelopathy with no radiographic or computed tomographic features of spinal fracture or instability”. The mechanism of pediatric SCIWORA following minor trauma is still unclear. Tight filum terminale (TFT) has been studied in the literature, but the information regarding the predisposing factor for SCIWORA is still being defined. Case presentation We report three cases of thoracic and lumber SCIWORA with TFT. The trauma was potentially mild in all cases but resulted in catastrophic damage of the cord. All patients had no signs or symptoms of tethered cord syndrome prior to the minor trauma. TFT was found during operation. Conclusions We suggest that TFT might be a predisposing factor for SCIWORA and chronic spinal cord traction play an important role in the mechanism of pediatric thoracic and lumber SCIWORA following minor trauma. Patients who never undergo treatment for TFT likely have an elevated risk of developing SCIWORA following minor trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Chuan Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Dongfang Road 1678, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Dongfang Road 1678, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Yun Hai Song
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Dongfang Road 1678, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Pin Pin Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Dongfang Road 1678, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Ze Yang Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Dongfang Road 1678, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Nan Bao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Dongfang Road 1678, Shanghai, 200127, China.
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McAllister AS, Nagaraj U, Radhakrishnan R. Emergent Imaging of Pediatric Cervical Spine Trauma. Radiographics 2019; 39:1126-1142. [DOI: 10.1148/rg.2019180100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron S. McAllister
- From the Department of Radiology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, 700 Children’s Dr, Columbus, OH 43205, and Department of Radiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio (A.S.M.); Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio (U.N.); and Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, Ind (R.R.)
| | - Usha Nagaraj
- From the Department of Radiology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, 700 Children’s Dr, Columbus, OH 43205, and Department of Radiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio (A.S.M.); Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio (U.N.); and Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, Ind (R.R.)
| | - Rupa Radhakrishnan
- From the Department of Radiology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, 700 Children’s Dr, Columbus, OH 43205, and Department of Radiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio (A.S.M.); Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio (U.N.); and Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, Ind (R.R.)
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Rolfe K, Beck A, Kovach T, Mayeda B, Liu C. Non-locality and the misdiagnosis of Spinal Cord Injury Without Radiographic Abnormality: proof of concept. Spinal Cord Ser Cases 2019; 5:11. [PMID: 30729035 PMCID: PMC6355779 DOI: 10.1038/s41394-019-0148-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Study Design This is a retrospective review. Objectives To validate the concept of "non-locality" to explain cases of Spinal Cord Injury Without Radiographic Abnormality (SCIWORA) previously deemed inexplicable. To investigate and challenge the source data for the SCIWORA hypothesis which has the built-in assumption that a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) can only be caused by a local or adjacent spinal column injury and which, therefore, postulates that the pediatric spinal column is inherently more flexible than the spinal cord to explain SCI whenever a local spinal column injury is not detected. Setting A National Rehabilitation Center, one of fourteen which reports to the Spinal Cord Injury Model System. Methods We examined all residual SCIWORA cases over a 5-year period. In addition, we performed an extensive literature search to trace the evidence supporting the SCIWORA hypothesis that children's spinal columns are inherently lax and may stretch more than the spinal cord prior to disruption. Results Six SCI patients with a residual diagnosis of SCIWORA were identified, 3 pediatric and 3 adult. All had injuries fitting non-locality. None were an actual SCIWORA. Source data do not appear to support the SCIWORA hypothesis. Conclusion Borrowing from quantum mechanics, we reveal non-locality as a real entity in the spine. The assumption of locality-only is invalid and likely contributed to the SCIWORA hypothesis for the pediatric spine. Misdiagnosis and misunderstanding of SCIWORA may lead to improper treatment and increased cost. Awareness may facilitate search for adequate explanations for difficult cases rather than mere assignment as SCIWORA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Rolfe
- Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, 7601 E. Imperial Highway, Downey, CA 90242 USA
- Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1000W. Carson St, Torrance, CA 90509 USA
| | - Aaron Beck
- Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1000W. Carson St, Torrance, CA 90509 USA
| | - Tracy Kovach
- Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1000W. Carson St, Torrance, CA 90509 USA
| | - Brian Mayeda
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048 USA
| | - Charles Liu
- Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, 7601 E. Imperial Highway, Downey, CA 90242 USA
- University of Southern California, 1500 San Pablo St, Los Angeles, CA 90033 USA
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Bonfanti L, Donelli V, Lunian M, Cerasti D, Cobianchi F, Cervellin G. Adult Spinal Cord Injury Without Radiographic Abnormality (SCIWORA). Two case reports and a narrative review. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2019; 89:593-598. [PMID: 30657112 PMCID: PMC6502103 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v89i4.7532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The term SCIWORA (Spinal Cord Injury Without Radiographic Abnormality) indicates a clinically appreciable post-traumatic myelopathy in the absence of spinal column findings on radiographs and/or computed tomography (CT), but with pathologic findings at magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in approximately two-thirds of cases. Affecting mainly children younger than 8 years, SCIWORA has been, however, also described in adult patients, but, due to the uncertainty of classification and frequent co-morbidity, the term “adult SCIWORA” has generated controversy, and some debate is still active. In this article, we report two different cases of adult SCIWORA involving cervical spinal cord, characterized by distinct and peculiar clinical features. A literature review and some clinical suggestions are also reported, mainly focused on the importance of a high level of suspicion in order to achieve a timely diagnosis and optimize the management and, consequently, the outcome of these trauma patients. (www.actabiomedica.it)
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to ascertain potential factors associated with cervical spine injuries in children injured during sports and recreational activities. METHODS This is a secondary analysis of a multicenter retrospective case-control study involving children younger than 16 years who presented to emergency departments after blunt trauma and underwent cervical spine radiography. Cases had cervical spine injury from sports or recreational activities (n = 179). Comparison groups sustained (1) cervical spine injury from other mechanisms (n = 361) or (2) other injuries from sports and recreational activities but were free of cervical spine injury (n = 180). RESULTS For children with sport and recreational activity-related cervical spine injuries, common injury patterns were subaxial (49%) and fractures (56%). These children were at increased odds of spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormalities compared with children with cervical spine injuries from other mechanisms (25% vs 6%). Children with sport and recreational activity-related trauma had increased odds of cervical spine injury if they had focal neurologic findings (odds ratio [OR], 5.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.5-9.4), had complaints of neck pain (OR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.9-5.0), were injured diving (OR, 43.5; 95% CI, 5.9-321.3), or sustained axial loading impacts (OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.3-3.5). Football (22%), diving (20%), and bicycle crashes (11%) were the leading activities associated with cervical spine injury. CONCLUSIONS In children injured during sports and recreational activities, focal neurologic findings, neck pain, axial loading impacts, and the possibility of spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality should guide the diagnostic evaluation for potential cervical spine injuries. Certain activities have a considerable frequency of cervical spine injury, which may benefit from activity-specific preventive measures.
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Gopinathan NR, Viswanathan VK, Crawford AH. Cervical Spine Evaluation in Pediatric Trauma: A Review and an Update of Current Concepts. Indian J Orthop 2018; 52:489-500. [PMID: 30237606 PMCID: PMC6142799 DOI: 10.4103/ortho.ijortho_607_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The clinical presentation and diagnostic workup in pediatric cervical spine injuries (CSI) are different from adults owing to the unique anatomy and relative immaturity. The current article reviews the existing literature regarding the uniqueness of these injuries and discusses the current guidelines of radiological evaluation. A PubMed search was conducted using keywords "paediatric cervical spine injuries" or "paediatric cervical spine trauma." Six hundred and ninety two articles were available in total. Three hundred and forty three articles were considered for the review after eliminating unrelated and duplicate articles. Further screening was performed and 67 articles (original articles and review articles only) related to pediatric CSI were finally included. All articles were reviewed for details regarding epidemiology, injury patterns, anatomic considerations, clinical, and radiological evaluation protocols. CSIs are the most common level (60%-80%) for pediatric Spinal Injuries (SI). Children suffer from atlantoaxial injuries 2.5 times more often than adults. Children's unique anatomical features (large head size and highly flexible spine) predispose them to such a peculiar presentation. The role of National Emergency X-Ray Utilization Study, United State (NEXUS) and Canadian Cervical Spine Rule criteria in excluding pediatric cervical injury is questionable but cannot be ruled out completely. The minimum radiological examination includes 2- or 3-view cervical X-rays (anteroposterior, lateral ± open-mouth odontoid views). Additional radiological evaluations, including computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are obtained in situations of abnormal physical examination, abnormal X-rays, inability to obtain adequate X-rays, or to assess cord/soft-tissue status. The clinical criteria for cervical spine injury clearance can generally be applied to children older than 2 years of age. Nevertheless, adequate caution should be exercised before applying these rules in younger children. Initial radiographic investigation should be always adequate plain radiographs of cervical spine. CT and MRI scans should only be performed in an appropriate group of pediatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirmal Raj Gopinathan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Vibhu Krishnan Viswanathan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Alvin H Crawford
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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Saul D, Dresing K. Epidemiology of vertebral fractures in pediatric and adolescent patients. Pediatr Rep 2018; 10:7232. [PMID: 29721244 PMCID: PMC5907726 DOI: 10.4081/pr.2018.7232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal injuries in children and adolescents are rare injuries, but consequences for the growing skeleton can be devastating. Knowledge of accident causes, clinical symptoms and diagnostics should be part of every trauma department treating these patients. We retrospectively analyzed patients with radiographically proven vertebral fractures of the spine. After clinical examination and tentative diagnosis the fractures and injuries were proven with conventional X-ray, computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The study included 890 fractures in 546 patients with an average age of 12.8±6.2 (6.6-19.4) years. Females had an average age of 13.7±6.3 (7.4-20.0) years, whereas males were on average 12.0 (6.0-18.0) years old. Fall from height (58%) was the main cause of accident and the most common region of fracture was the thoracolumbar spine with a shift towards the thoracic spine the more fractures occurred. Merely 3.7% of all patients required operative treatment. If a vertebral fracture is found in children and adolescents, it is highly recommended to exclude synchronous additional spine fractures in other levels; prevention should concentrate on fall and traffic accidents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Saul
- Department of Trauma, Orthopedics and Reconstructive Surgery, Georg- August-University of Goettingen, Germany
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Wang J, Li J, Cai L. Effects of Treatment of Cervical Spinal Cord Injury without Fracture and Dislocation in A Medium-to Long-Term Follow-Up Study. World Neurosurg 2018; 113:e515-e520. [PMID: 29477003 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2018.02.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical effects of cervical spinal cord injury without fracture and dislocation (CSCIWFD) treatment in a medium-to long-term follow-up study. The clinical treatment of CSCIWFD is also discussed. METHODS A consecutive series of 42 CSCIWFD patients with complete follow-up data were retrospectively analyzed. Among these patients, 9 received conservative treatment and 33 underwent surgical treatment from June 2009 to March 2013. Neurologic functional recovery was evaluated according to the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scoring system and the Frankel grade on admission, during hospital discharge, and at final follow-up. The average follow-up time was 49.6 months (range, 36-68 months). RESULTS The 33 cases with surgical treatment showed significantly higher JOA scores at the final follow-up than those with conservative treatment. In addition, statistically significant differences were found in all of the follow-up visits between patients whose operations were performed within 7 days after injury and those performed after 7 days (P < 0.05). Early surgery promoted spinal cord recovery. However, JOA scores at 49.6 months postsurgery were not significantly different between patients treated via the anterior approach and those treated via the posterior approach (P > 0.05). On the basis of Frankel functional classification, differences were also significant between surgical treatment and conservative treatment at all of the follow-up visits. CONCLUSIONS Early surgical treatment for CSCIWFD can directly relieve spinal cord compression. The medium-to long-term follow-up revealed that surgery clearly promotes decompression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianping Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jingfeng Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Lin Cai
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Abstract
“Spinal Cord Injury without Radiographic Abnormality” (SCIWORA) is a term that denotes objective clinical signs of posttraumatic spinal cord injury without evidence of fracture or malalignment on plain radiographs and computed tomography (CT) of the spine. SCIWORA is most commonly seen in children with a predilection for the cervical spinal cord due to the increased mobility of the cervical spine, the inherent ligamentous laxity, and the large head-to-body ratio during childhood. However, SCIWORA can also be seen in adults and, in rare cases, the thoracolumbar spinal cord can be affected too. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become a valuable diagnostic tool in patients with SCIWORA because of its superior ability to identify soft tissue lesions such as cord edema, hematomas and transections, and discoligamentous injuries that may not be visualized in plain radiographs and CT. The mainstay of treatment in patients with SCIWORA is nonoperative management including steroid therapy, immobilization, and avoidance of activities that may increase the risk of exacerbation or recurrent injury. Although the role of operative treatment in SCIWORA can be controversial, surgical alternatives such as decompression and fusion should be considered in selected patients with clinical and MRI evidence of persistent spinal cord compression and instability.
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Figaji AA. Anatomical and Physiological Differences between Children and Adults Relevant to Traumatic Brain Injury and the Implications for Clinical Assessment and Care. Front Neurol 2017; 8:685. [PMID: 29312119 PMCID: PMC5735372 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2017.00685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
General and central nervous system anatomy and physiology in children is different to that of adults and this is relevant to traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury. The controversies and uncertainties in adult neurotrauma are magnified by these differences, the lack of normative data for children, the scarcity of pediatric studies, and inappropriate generalization from adult studies. Cerebral metabolism develops rapidly in the early years, driven by cortical development, synaptogenesis, and rapid myelination, followed by equally dramatic changes in baseline and stimulated cerebral blood flow. Therefore, adult values for cerebral hemodynamics do not apply to children, and children cannot be easily approached as a homogenous group, especially given the marked changes between birth and age 8. Their cranial and spinal anatomy undergoes many changes, from the presence and disappearance of the fontanels, the presence and closure of cranial sutures, the thickness and pliability of the cranium, anatomy of the vertebra, and the maturity of the cervical ligaments and muscles. Moreover, their systemic anatomy changes over time. The head is relatively large in young children, the airway is easily compromised, the chest is poorly protected, the abdominal organs are large. Physiology changes—blood volume is small by comparison, hypothermia develops easily, intracranial pressure (ICP) is lower, and blood pressure normograms are considerably different at different ages, with potentially important implications for cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) thresholds. Mechanisms and pathologies also differ—diffuse injuries are common in accidental injury, and growing fractures, non-accidental injury and spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality are unique to the pediatric population. Despite these clear differences and the vulnerability of children, the amount of pediatric-specific data in TBI is surprisingly weak. There are no robust guidelines for even basics aspects of care in children, such as ICP and CPP management. This is particularly alarming given that TBI is a leading cause of death in children. To address this, there is an urgent need for pediatric-specific clinical research. If this goal is to be achieved, any clinician or researcher interested in pediatric neurotrauma must be familiar with its unique pathophysiological characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony A Figaji
- Neuroscience Institute, Division of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, Red Cross Children's Hospital, Rondebosch, Cape Town, South Africa
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Slaar A, Fockens MM, Wang J, Maas M, Wilson DJ, Goslings JC, Schep NWL, van Rijn RR. Triage tools for detecting cervical spine injury in pediatric trauma patients. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 12:CD011686. [PMID: 29215711 PMCID: PMC6486014 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011686.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric cervical spine injury (CSI) after blunt trauma is rare. Nonetheless, missing these injuries can have severe consequences. To prevent the overuse of radiographic imaging, two clinical decision tools have been developed: The National Emergency X-Radiography Utilization Study (NEXUS) criteria and the Canadian C-spine Rule (CCR). Both tools are proven to be accurate in deciding whether or not diagnostic imaging is needed in adults presenting for blunt trauma screening at the emergency department. However, little information is known about the accuracy of these triage tools in a pediatric population. OBJECTIVES To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the NEXUS criteria and the Canadian C-spine Rule in a pediatric population evaluated for CSI following blunt trauma. SEARCH METHODS We searched the following databases to 24 February 2015: CENTRAL, MEDLINE, MEDLINE Non-Indexed and In-Process Citations, PubMed, Embase, Science Citation Index, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Database, OpenGrey, ClinicalTrials.gov, World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, the Health Technology Assessment, and the Aggressive Research Intelligence Facility. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all retrospective and prospective studies involving children following blunt trauma that evaluated the accuracy of the NEXUS criteria, the Canadian C-spine Rule, or both. Plain radiography, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervical spine, and follow-up were considered as adequate reference standards. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed the quality of included studies using the QUADAS-2 checklists. They extracted data on study design, patient characteristics, inclusion and exclusion criteria, clinical parameters, target condition, reference standard, and the diagnostic two-by-two table. We calculated and plotted sensitivity, specificity and negative predictive value in ROC space, and constructed forest plots for visual examination of variation in test accuracy. MAIN RESULTS Three cohort studies were eligible for analysis, including 3380 patients ; 96 children were diagnosed with CSI. One study evaluated the accuracy of the Canadian C-spine Rule and the NEXUS criteria, and two studies evaluated the accuracy of the NEXUS criteria. The studies were of moderate quality. Due to the small number of included studies and the diverse outcomes of those studies, we could not describe a pooled estimate for the diagnostic test accuracy. The sensitivity of the NEXUS criteria of the individual studies was 0.57 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.18 to 0.90), 0.98 (95% CI 0.91 to 1.00) and 1.00 (95% CI 0.88 to 1.00). The specificity of the NEXUS criteria was 0.35 (95% CI 0.25 to 0.45), 0.54 (95% CI 0.45 to 0.62) and 0.2 (95% CI 0.18 to 0.21). For the Canadian C-spine Rule the sensitivity was 0.86 (95% CI 0.42 to 1.00) and specificity was 0.15 (95% CI 0.08 to 0.23). Since the quantity of the data was small we were not able to investigate heterogeneity. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There are currently few studies assessing the diagnostic test accuracy of the NEXUS criteria and CCR in children. At the moment, there is not enough evidence to determine the accuracy of the Canadian C-spine Rule to detect CSI in pediatric trauma patients following blunt trauma. The confidence interval of the sensitivity of the NEXUS criteria between the individual studies showed a wide range, with a lower limit varying from 0.18 to 0.91 with a total of four false negative test results, meaning that if physicians use the NEXUS criteria in children, there is a chance of missing CSI. Since missing CSI could have severe consequences with the risk of significant morbidity, we consider that the NEXUS criteria are at best a guide to clinical assessment, with current evidence not supporting strict or protocolized adoption of the tool into pediatric trauma care. Moreover, we have to keep in mind that the sensitivity differs among several studies, and individual confidence intervals of these studies show a wide range. Our main conclusion is therefore that additional well-designed studies with large sample sizes are required to better evaluate the accuracy of the NEXUS criteria or the Canadian C-spine Rule, or both, in order to determine whether they are appropriate triage tools for the clearance of the cervical spine in children following blunt trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelie Slaar
- WestfriesgasthuisDepartment of RadiologyMaelsonstraat 3HoornNoord HollandNetherlands1624 NP
| | - M M Fockens
- University of AmsterdamAcademic Medical CenterAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Junfeng Wang
- Academic Medical CenterDepartment of Clinical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and BioinformaticsMeibergdreef 9AmsterdamNetherlands1105 AZ
| | - Mario Maas
- Academic Medical CenterDepartment of RadiologyUniversity of AmsterdamMeibergdreefAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - David J Wilson
- St Lukes HospitalDepartment of RadiologyLatimer RoadHeadingtonOxfordUKOX3 7PF
| | - J Carel Goslings
- Academic Medical CenterTrauma Unit, Department of SurgeryMeibergdreef 9AmsterdamNetherlands1105 AZ
| | - Niels WL Schep
- Academic Medical CenterDepartment of Surgery/Trauma UnitMeibergdreef 9AmsterdamNetherlands1105AZ
| | - Rick R van Rijn
- Academic Medical Center AmsterdamDepartment of RadiologyMeibergdreef 9AmsterdamNetherlands1105 AZ
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Agrawal M, Borkar SA, Mahapatra AK. Letter to the Editor Regarding "Efficacy of Early Surgery for Neurological Improvement in Spinal Cord Injury without Radiographic Evidence of Trauma in the Elderly". World Neurosurg 2017; 108:962. [PMID: 29179410 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2017.07.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohit Agrawal
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sachin Anil Borkar
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
| | - Ashok K Mahapatra
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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