Central cord injury: pathophysiology, management, and outcomes.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Cervical spinal trauma can result in a heterogeneous collection of spinal cord injury syndromes. Acute traumatic central cord syndrome is a common category of which no uniform consensus on the etiology, pathophysiology, and treatment exists.

PURPOSE

To evaluate and review potential pathophysiology, current treatment options, and management of central cord injuries.

STUDY DESIGN

Comprehensive literature review and clinical experience.

METHODS

A systematic review of Medline for articles related to central cord and spinal cord injury was conducted up to and including journal articles published in September 2005.

CONCLUSIONS

Central cord injuries is a clinical definition which is composed of a heterogeneous population for which medical management and surgical decompression and stabilization provide improved neurologic recovery.