Holistic Management of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Resulting from a Fracture of T-9 Vertebra

Abstract

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is an disastrous condition resulting in not only disability and handicap to the victims but also profound psychological damage. We report a case of complete spinal cord injury resulting from a fracture of T-9 vertebra in a car accident. Emergency management is needed to prevent further damage to the neural tissue, as well as to treat a life threatening condition. Surgical treatment to maintain spinal alignment and stability provides early mobilization to prevent the complications caused by the immobilization syndrome. A holistic approach to management is fundamental to the rehabilitation program. Although physical impairment and disability are permanent, psychosocial management focused on cognitive and behavioral modification together with home modification plays an important role in reducing disability and handicap and allowing a patient to return to his home and previous social function with the best quality of life as possible.