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Semin Neurol 2016; 36(06): 577-585
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1592189
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Critical Care of Traumatic Cervical Spinal Cord Injuries: Preventing Secondary Injury

Gary Schwartzbauer
1   Department of Neurosurgery, R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
,
Deborah Stein
2   Department of Surgery, R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
01 December 2016 (online)

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Abstract

The incidence of traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) has not changed much over the years due to an aging population suffering falls, yet advances have been made in quality of life and survival time. In addition to initial medical and surgical stabilization, modern intensive care unit (ICU) care throughout the critical early period following SCI is essential to avoid continued secondary injury to the spinal cord. Cervical SCI patients are particularly prone and sensitive to periods of cardiovascular instability and respiratory failure directly resulting from their injuries. Preclinical and class III clinical data suggest improved outcomes by maintaining the mean arterial pressure > 85 mm Hg and avoiding hypoxemia at least for 7 days following cervical SCI, and this level of monitoring and support should occur in the ICU.

Keywords

spinal cord injury - intensive care - intensive care unit - secondary spinal cord injury
 

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