## Overview Vertebral fracture or luxation with spinal cord compression most commonly occurs at C1-C2, C3-C4, or the thoracolumbar junction. Signs are acute severe ataxia or paralysis caudal to the lesion, neck pain with cervical fractures, and recumbency if the cord is transected. Deficits may be asymmetric. ## Causes Trauma, often falls or collisions. ## Diagnosis Neurologic examination and imaging. ## Treatment Strict stabilization. Corticosteroids are controversial. Surgery in selected cases. Complete transection is hopeless. ## Recovery and Prognosis Depends entirely on the severity of cord damage. ## Prevention Safe handling and environments.
acute severe ataxia or paralysis caudal to the lesion; neck pain with cervical fractures; recumbency if cord is transected; may be asymmetric
## Overview Vertebral fracture or luxation with spinal cord compression most commonly occurs at C1-C2, C3-C4, or the thoracolumbar junction. Signs are acute severe ataxia or paralysis caudal to the lesion, neck pain with cervical fractures, and recumbency if the cord is transected. Deficits may be asymmetric. ## Causes Trauma, often falls or collisions. ## Diagnosis Neurologic examination and imaging. ## Treatment Strict stabilization. Corticosteroids are controversial. Surgery in selected cases. Complete transection is hopeless. ## Recovery and Prognosis Depends entirely on the severity of cord damage. ## Prevention Safe handling and environments.
acute severe ataxia or paralysis caudal to the lesion; neck pain with cervical fractures; recumbency if cord is transected; may be asymmetric