Pediatric cervical spine injuries with neurological deficits, treatment options, and potential for recovery.

PURPOSE

The purpose of the present study was to highlight the challenges in managing cervical spine injuries in children with neurological deficits.

INTRODUCTION

Cervical spine injuries in children are relatively rare. Pattern, severity, and level of these injuries are age dependent. Neurological deficits in young children are uncommon and usually have a good potential for recovery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This report includes four cases with pediatric cervical spine injuries with variable degrees of spinal cord injuries and neurological deficits. All the four patients were five years old or younger at the time of injury. Those patients were presented with different patterns of injuries and the treatment was customized for every patient. Marked neurological improvement occurred in all patients at the last follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The treatment of pediatric cervical spine injuries should be individualized. Children with stable injuries should do well with non-operative treatment while operative treatment is recommended when the indication is appropriate and the expertise is available. Neurological deficits due to spinal cord injuries in pediatric patients have a high potential for recovery, provided that adequate management is considered.