Patterns of spinal injury in a new neurosurgical centre: A 2-year prospective study

Abstract

Background: Spinal injury is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Road traffic accident is the main aetiologic factor, affecting mostly the male gender in the >15 – 40-year age group. The aim of this study was to establish our local hospital patterns of spinal injury and compare them with published reports.

Methods and Patients: A prospective study of all spinal injury patients treated in our service in the two-year period, April 21, 2006 – April 20, 2008 was undertaken. Data collection was done using a structured proforma from the time of admission into our service to the time of discharge, and subsequent follow-up in the few cases that kept to their appointment. Data was then collated and simple data analysis done.

Results: Spinal injury was diagnosed in 62 of our 826 patients, mostly males, aged >15-40years 28 (45.2%), and road traffic accident was the main aetiologic factor with an unusually high case incidence from motorcycles. There were neurological deficits in 49(79%) and cervical cord injuries were the most common. Evaluation of the injuries was mostly with plain radiography, and treatment was non-operative in all cases. Complete cord injuries remained without improvement, and complications were mostly pressure ulcers, with no incident of deep venous thrombosis. Mortality was 13(21%).

Conclusion: Spinal injury was an important indication for neurosurgical consultations in our service. Complete cord injuries were more common than incomplete injuries contrary to other previous reports, and the case incidence from motorcycles was remarkably high.