anatomy lect 5 trunk & spine
TRANSCRIPT
Anatomy Lecture 5
Trunk & Spine
Physician Assistant ProgramMiami Dade College
Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Spinal AnatomyThe spine has three
major components: – the spinal column
(i.e., bones and discs) – neural elements (i.e.,
the spinal cord and nerve roots)
– supporting structures (i.e., muscles and ligaments)
Vertebrae C=7 T=12 L=5 S=5 C=3-4 (1)
31 pairs of spinal nerves
Spinal Anatomy
Term# of Vertebrae
Body Area Abbreviation
Cervical 7 Neck C1 – C7
Thoracic 12 Chest T1 – T12
Lumbar 5 (or 6) Low Back L1 – L5
Sacrum 5 (fused) Pelvis S1 – S5
Coccyx 3-4 (1) Tailbone None
The spine has four natural curves. – The cervical and lumbar
curves are lordotic. – The thoracic and sacral
curves are kyphotic. – The curves help to
distribute mechanical stress as the body moves.
Pathologic Lateral Curvature – Scoliosis
Spinal Anatomy & Physiology Protection Spinal Cord and Nerve
Roots Many internal organs
Base for Attachment Ligaments Tendons Muscles
Structural Support Head, shoulders, chest Connects upper and
lower body Balance and weight
distribution
Flexibility and Mobility
Flexion (forward bending)
Extension (backward bending)
Side bending (left and right)
Rotation (left and right)
Combination of above
Other Bones produce red
blood cells Mineral storage
Back Pain
10% of population/year seen 80% c/o back pain in lifetime
– 30-70 yr/old– Competitive sports, accidents
Spinal Anatomy
The Central Nervous System is composed of the brain and spinal cord.
The brain has 12 Cranial Nerves. The spinal cord, which originates
immediately below the brainstem, extends to the first lumbar vertebra (L1).
Beyond L1 the spinal cord becomes the Cauda Equina
Spinal Anatomy
Nerve impulses travel to and from the brain through the spinal cord to a specific location by way of the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).
The PNS is the complex system of nerves that branch off from the spinal nerve roots.
Spinal Anatomy The CNS extends to the Peripheral Nervous
System (PNS), – a system of nerves that branch beyond the spinal
cord, brain, and brainstem. The PNS includes the Somatic Nervous
System (SNS) and the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS).
The somatic nervous system includes the nerves serving the musculoskeletal system and the skin.
It is voluntary and reacts to outside stimuli affecting the body.
The autonomic nervous system is involuntary automatically seeking to maintain homeostasis or normal function.
Spinal Anatomy The ANS is further divided into the
Sympathetic Nervous System and the Parasympathetic Nervous System.
The sympathetic nervous system is an involuntary system often associated with the flight or fight response.
The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for promoting internal harmony such as regular heartbeat during normal activity. Associated with the rest or digest response.
Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Cerebrospinal fluid is a clear fluid found in
the brain chambers (Ventricles), spinal canal, and spinal cord.
This fluid is secreted from the Choroids Plexus, a vascular part in the ventricles of the brain.
CSF bathes and circulates among these tissues and acts as a shock absorber to protect against injury.
The fluid contains different electrolytes, proteins, and glucose.
In an average adult the total volume of CSF is about 150 milliliters.
Meninges Meninges are membranes that cover and
protect the brain and spinal cord. There are three primary types:
– (1) The dura mater, or dura, is the gray outer layer of the spinal cord and nerve roots.
It is made of strong connective tissue.
– (2) The arachnoid mater resembles a loosely woven fabric of arteries and veins.
This layer is thinner than the dura mater. The Subarachnoid space is filled with cerebrospinal fluid.
– (3) The pia mater is the innermost layer and is a delicate and highly vascular membrane providing blood to the neural structures.
DermatomesDermatomesis an area of
skin supplied by fibers from a single spinal nerve root.
Intervertebral discs The cartilaginous discs between vertebrae
absorb and distribute shock and keep the vertebrae from grinding together during movement
The intervertebral discs make up one fourth of the spinal column's length.
There are no discs between the Atlas (C1), Axis (C2), sacrum and Coccyx.
Discs are not vascular and therefore depend on the end plates to diffuse needed nutrients.
The cartilaginous layers of the end plates anchor the discs in place.
Intervertebral discsThe intervertebral discs are
fibrocartilaginous cushions serving as the spine's shock absorbing system, which protect the vertebrae, brain, and other structures (i.e. nerves).
The discs allow some vertebral motion: extension and flexion.
Individual disc movement is very limited – however considerable motion is possible when several discs combine forces.
Intervertebral discsIntervertebral discs are
composed of an annulus fibrosus and a nucleus pulposus.– The annulus fibrosus is a strong
radial tire–like structure made up of lamellae; concentric sheets of collagen fibers connected to the vertebral end plates. The sheets are orientated at various angles.
– The annulus fibrosus encloses the nucleus pulposus.
Intervertebral discs
Although both the annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulposus are composed of water, collagen, and proteoglycans (PGs), the amount of fluid (water and PGs) is greatest in the nucleus pulposus.
PG molecules are important because they attract and retain water.
The nucleus pulposus contains a hydrated gel–like matter that resists compression.
The amount of water in the nucleus varies throughout the day depending on activity.
Facet joints
Each vertebra has two sets of facet joints. One pair faces upward (superior articular
facet) and one downward (inferior articular facet).
There is one joint on each side (right and left). Facet joints are hinge–like and link vertebrae
together. They are located at the back of the spine
(posterior).
Facet joints Facet joints are synovial joints.
– This means each joint is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue and produces a fluid to nourish and lubricate the joint.
The joint surfaces are coated with cartilage allowing joints to move or glide smoothly (articulate) against each other.
These joints allow flexion (bend forward), extension (bend backward), and twisting motion.
The spine is made more stable due to the interlocking nature to adjacent vertebrae
Ligaments in the spine Three of the more important ligaments in the
spine– The Ligamentum Flavum forms a cover over the
dura mater: (a layer of tissue that protects the spinal cord.)
This ligament connects under the facet joints to create a small curtain over the posterior openings between the vertebrae.
– The Anterior Longitudinal Ligament attaches to the front of each vertebra. This ligament runs up and down the spine (vertical or longitudinal).
– The Posterior Longitudinal Ligament runs up and down behind the spine and inside the spinal canal.
Spinal Anatomy
Injury or mild trauma to the cervical spine can cause a serious or life-threatening medical emergency [e.g. spinal cord injury (SCI) or fracture].
Pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling are symptoms that may develop when one or more spinal nerves are injured, irritated, or stretched.
The cervical nerves control many bodily functions and sensory activities.
Spinal AnatomyC1: Head and neckC2: Head and neck C3: Diaphragm C4: Diaphragm. Upper body muscles (e.g. Deltoids, Biceps) C5: Diaphragm. Wrist flexorsC6: Wrist extensorsC7: Triceps. Hands C8: Hands
Spinal Anatomy
(Odontoid Process)
Normal Cervical Spine
Spine injuriesCervical spine injury:
– Most often, a spine injury results from a collision, and there may be associated head injury.
– The head and neck must be immobilized immediately, and ease of breathing and level of consciousness (LOC) must be ascertained.
– If spine injury is suspected, it is wise to be extremely cautious until a proper diagnosis (dx) is made.
This is the best way to prevent conversion of a repairable injury to a catastrophic one.
Whiplash
Whiplash" is a nonmedical term to describe hyperextension injury to the neck resulting from an indirect force, usually a rear-end automobile collision.
The diagnosis of whiplash is often one of exclusion.
Most injuries are to soft tissues such as the disks, muscles and ligaments, and cannot be seen on standard X-rays
Neck sprain/strain
People who are involved in motor vehicle crashes or who take hard falls in a contact sport or around the house may get a real "pain in the neck."
This pain can result from a ligament sprain or muscle strain.
stretch or tear resulting from a sudden movement that causes the neck to extend to an extreme position
Tx:– NSAIDS, Muscle relaxers, Narcotics– Soft collar or not??
SPINAL INJURIES
The incidence of traumatic spinal cord injuries (SCI) in the United States has been estimated at 30 cases per million population at risk.
Ninety percent of SCI are related to motor vehicle crashes.
Spinal Cord Injury
Pre-hospital management– C-spine precautions
In hospital management– If rapid sequence intubation is
performed, then careful in-line cervical stabilization (not traction) should be applied.
Consider neck injury in all patients with head injury !!!– Immobilization of neck first step
– Maintain BP and oxygenation to prevent further injury
– Bladder catheterization as awareness of bladder filling impaired/absent
Rectal tone, perianal sensation and wink, should be assessed.
Cervical spine radiographs require an anteroposterior view, a lateral view, and an odontoid view.
Plain film radiography of the traumatized portion of the spine is required when the following are present:
To X-ray or Not to X-ray
Canadian C-Spine Rules
NEXUS study(a) midline pain or bony
tenderness, crepitus, or step-off;
(b) neurologic deficit; (c) presence of
distracting injuries; (d) altered mental
status (including intoxication);
(e) complaint of paresthesia or numbness
Closed spinal cord injured (SCIs) should be treated with high-dose methylprednisolone.
Removal of the patient from the long spine board within 2 hrs, with full spine precautions, is recommended to prevent skin breakdown and pressure sores.
Stable patients may be further imaged with specific spinal radiographs, CT scans, or MRI.
Neurosurgical or orthopedic consultation is required for clinically significant spinal fractures or SCI.
Any patient with an unstable spine, nerve root compression, uncontrollable pain, or intestinal ileus should be admitted to the hospital.
Patients with significant vertebral or spinal cord trauma should be managed at a regional trauma or spinal cord injury center.
Various fractures, dislocations, blunt and penetrating injury patterns, and disk herniations may lead to SCI or nerve root impingement syndromes.
Unstable bony injury may exist without actual SCI or nerve root trauma.
Vertebral fractures may have localized pain on palpation of the injured spine, muscle spasms, splinting, and resistance to movement.
Palpable crepitus, deformity, and step-off may also be present on examination of the midline.
ExaminationExamination Severe spinal cord injury
– Deep Tendon reflex (DTR’s) usually absent below level of lesion
– Sensory level to pinprick may be found on chest
– High cervical lesions (C3-C5) affect all arm muscles and ventilation
– Midcervical lesions affect extension but not flexion at elbow
– Low cervical lesions affect hand muscle function but may preserve elbow flexion and extension
– Thoracic lesions result in paraplegia
Partial spinal cord injury
– May be seen with acute neck extension (hyperextension)
– Typically get central spinal cord syndrome or anterior spinal artery syndrome with bilateral arm weakness and normal leg strength
Anterior cord syndromes involve the loss of motor function and pain and temperature sensation distal to the level of injury with preservation of light touch, vibration, and proprioception.
A central cord syndrome, associated with hyperextension injuries, presents with motor weakness more prominent in the arms than in the legs and with variable sensory loss.
The Brown-Sequard syndrome most often results from penetrating trauma and is caused by a hemisection of the spinal cord. There is loss of ipsilateral motor function, proprioception, light touch sensation, and loss of contralateral pain and temperature sensation.
The cauda equina syndrome is less of a spinal cord lesion than it is a peripheral nerve injury, and it presents with variable motor and sensory loss in the lower extremities, sciatica, bowel or bladder dysfunction, and “saddle anesthesia.”
Paresthesias, sensory disturbances, motor deficits, reflex abnormalities, and spinal shock may be present with bony fractures and SCI.
Injury to the corticospinal tract produces an ipsilateral upper motor neuron lesion that results in – increased deep tendon reflexes, spasticity,
weakness, and a +Babinski sign.
Injury to the dorsal column, located in the posterior aspect of the spinal cord, results in – loss of ipsilateral light touch sensation and
proprioception.
Injury to the spinothalamic tracts results in – contralateral pain and temperature sensory
losses. – These fibers decussate in the anterior
aspect of the spinal cord at the vertebral level.
Injury to the nerve roots produces an ipsilateral lower motor neuron lesion and a radiculopathy that may result in – decreased deep tendon reflexes, weakness,
and sensory loss in that nerve distribution.
Spinal shock:
is characterized by warm, pink, dry skin;
adequate urine output; and relative bradycardia. Other signs of autonomic dysfunction
may accompany spinal shock, such as – ileus, – urinary retention, – fecal incontinence, – and priapism.
DIAGNOSIS AND DIFFERENTIAL
The history is useful in defining the mechanism of SCI, thus allowing the clinician to anticipate specific potential injury patterns.
The physical examination should focus on complete palpation of the spine, testing the symmetry of reflexes, motor strength, pain sensation, and light touch and proprioception in each extremity.
ImagingImaging Portable X-ray of C-spine
– Lateral must include all 7 vertebra and odontoid
Extension and flexion radiographs if plain X-rays normal– Check for cervical spine stability in patient
with neck pain CAT scan
– Subluxations or fractures– Neuro abnormality present
MRI – Readily demonstrates spinal cord hemorrhage
or contusion– Images bone poorly
A computed tomography (CT) scan with or without myelography or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan may be required to further evaluate the extent of the spinal injury.
Once a bony abnormality is identified, a key component of the differential is the degree of stability associated with that particular type of injury.
Fractures of the odontoid with rupture of the transverse atlantal ligament are extremely unstable.
A Hangman’s fracture is an unstable fracture of the pedicles of the posterior arch of C2 caused by extension and distraction injury.
A Jefferson fracture is an axial load compression fracture of the anterior and posterior arches of C1 and is an unstable fracture.
Extension “teardrop” fractures are unstable fractures where the anterior longitudinal ligament avulses the anterior-inferior corner of the vertebral body.
Hangman’s fx Lateral radiograph reveals markedly increased prevertebral
swelling (two short arrows) associated with the fracture at the posterior aspect of C2 pedicles (medium arrow). Displacement is obvious by following the posterior spinal line (long arrow).
Jefferson Fx Anteroposterior tomogram at the craniocervical
junction demonstrates lateral mass of C1 (arrows) lying lateral to the lateral masses of C2 (arrowheads) on both the left and right sides as a result of spread of the ring of C1.
Teardrop fracture
Classification of Odontoid Fx’s
Brachial plexus Acute brachial plexus
neuritis is an uncommon disorder of unknown etiology that is easily confused with other neck and upper extremity abnormalities, such as cervical spondylosis and cervical radiculopathy.
Brachial Plexus
1-3 Patients with acute brachial plexus neuritis present with a characteristic pattern of acute or subacute onset of pain followed by profound weakness of the upper arm and amyotrophic changes affecting the shoulder girdle and upper extremity
Brachial Plexus
In traumatic setting, it is caused by distraction of the arm and head.
Ninety percent of brachial plexus injuries in children are caused by a traumatic stretching of the plexus during birth.
TorticollisTorticollis (from the Latin
torti, meaning twisted and collis, meaning neck)
refers to presentation of the neck in a twisted or bent position.
Torticollis manifests in involuntary contractions of the neck muscles, leading to abnormal postures and movements of the head.
Spinal AnatomyThoracic Vertebrae
The thoracic vertebrae increase in size from T1 through T12.
They are characterized by small pedicles, long spinous processes, and relatively large intervertebral foramen (neural passageways), which result in less incidence of nerve compression.
1 Vertebral Body
2 Spinous Process
3 Transverse Process
4 Pedicle 5 Foramen 6 Articular
Process
Spinal Anatomy
Spinal AnatomyThe rib cage is joined
to the thoracic vertebrae.
At T11 and T12, the ribs do not attach and are so are called "floating ribs."
The thoracic spine's range of motion is limited due to the many rib/vertebrae connections and the long spinous processes.
Spinal AnatomyLumbar Vertebrae
Spinal Anatomy
The lumbar vertebrae graduate in size from L1 through L5. – Most people have five lumbar vertebrae
although it is not unusual to have six These vertebrae bear much of the body's
weight and related biomechanical stress. The pedicles are longer and wider than
those in the thoracic spine. The spinous processes are horizontal and
more squared in shape. The intervertebral foramen (neural
passageways) are relatively large but nerve root compression is more common than in the thoracic spine.
Spinal Anatomy
Just below the last Thoracic (T12) and first Lumbar (L1) vertebra the spinal cord ends at the Conus Medullaris.
From this point the spinal nerves, resembling a horse’s tail become known as the Cauda Equina extending to the coccyx.
These nerves are suspended in spinal fluid.
Sciatica: Sciatic Nerve Compression
The sciatic nerve is the longest and largest nerve in the body measuring three-quarters of an inch in diameter.
The sciatic nerve originates in the sacral plexus; a network of nerves in the lumbosacral spine.
The lumbosacral spine refers to the lumbar spine and the sacrum combined.
The nerve and its nerve branches enable movement and feeling (motor and sensory functions) in the thigh, knee, calf, ankle, foot and toes.
1 Sciatic Nerve
2 Sacrum 3 Hip Bone Yellow
Structures = Nerves
Red Structures = Arteries
Blue Structures = Veins
(LumbosacrSpine-Post
View)
Sciatica: Sciatic Nerve Compression
If the sciatic nerve is injured or becomes inflamed, it causes symptoms called sciatica.
Sciatica can cause intense pain along any part of the sciatica nerve pathway - from the buttocks to the toes.
If the nerve is compressed, caused by conditions such as a bulging or herniated disc, DJD, spinal stenosis, Isthmic Spondylolisthesis or tumor (rare), symptoms may include a loss of reflexes, weakness and numbness besides severe pain.
Sciatic nerve pain can make everyday activities such as walking, sitting and standing difficult.
Sciatica: Sciatic Nerve Compression
Sciatic nerve fibers begin at the 4th and 5th lumbar vertebra (L4, L5) and the first few segments of the sacrum.
The nerve passes through the sciatic foramen just below the Piriformis muscle (rotates the thigh laterally), to the back of the extension of the hip and to the lower part of the Gluteus Maximus (muscle in the buttock, thigh extension).
Sciatica
The sciatic nerve then runs vertically downward into the back of the thigh, behind the knee branching into the hamstring muscles, calf, and further downward to the feet.
Rarely is sciatic nerve damage permanent and paralysis is seldom a danger as the spinal cord ends before the first lumbar vertebra.
Sciatica
However, increasing trunk or leg weakness, or bladder and/or bowel incontinence is an indication of Cauda Equina Syndrome, a serious disorder requiring emergency treatment.
Sciatica Piriformis Syndrome is caused by an entrapment
(pinching) of the sciatic nerve as it exits the Greater Sciatic notch in the gluteal region
The second common site of entrapment is when the sciatic nerve actually pierces the piriformis muscle itself. – This can occur in about 1% to 10% of all humans.
In this case myospasm and or contraction of the piriformis muscle itself can lead to pain along the back of the thigh to the knee, loss of sensation or numbness and tingling in the sole of the foot. – This particular syndrome can often mimic its more notorious
counterpart known as sciatica. Sciatica is directly due to a lumbar disc pressing on the
sciatic nerve as it exits the intervertebral foramen in the lumbar spine.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, which places pressure on the spinal cord
As people age, the ligaments of the spine can thicken and harden (calcification).
Bones and joints may also enlarge, and bone spurs (osteophytes) may form.
Bulging or herniated discs are also common.
Spinal Stenosis
The narrowing of the spinal canal itself does not usually cause any symptoms.
It is when inflammation of the nerves occurs at the level of increased pressure that patients begin to experience problems.
When these conditions occur in the spinal area, they can cause the spinal canal to narrow, creating pressure on the spinal nerve
Spinal Stenosis
Patients with lumbar spinal stenosis may feel pain, weakness, or numbness in the legs, calves or buttocks.
In the lumbar spine, symptoms often increase when walking short distances and decrease when the patient sits, bends forward or lies down.
Spinal Stenosis
Cervical spinal stenosis may cause similar symptoms in the shoulders, arms, and legs; hand clumsiness and gait and balance disturbances can also occur.
In some patients the pain starts in the legs and moves upward to the buttocks; in other patients the pain begins higher in the body and moves downward.
This is referred to as a “sensory march”.
Spinal Stenosis
The pain may radiate like sciatica, may be a cramping pain, or the pain can be constant.
Severe cases of stenosis can also cause bladder and bowel problems, but this rarely occurs.
Also paraplegia or significant loss of function also rarely, if ever, occurs.
Spinal Stenosis
Tx: NSAIDs Corticosteroid injections (epidural steroids) can
help reduce swelling and treat acute pain that radiates to the hips or down the leg. – This pain relief may only be temporary and patients are
usually not advised to get more than 3 injections per 6-month period.
Rest or restricted activity (this may vary depending on extent of nerve involvement).
Physical therapy and/or prescribed exercises to help stabilize the spine, build endurance and increase flexibility.
Surgical
SpondylolysisIn spondylolysis, there is a defect in
the pars interarticularis (which literally means the "piece between the articulations").
So spondylolysis means a defect in the thin isthmus of bone connecting the superior and inferior facets, and could be unilateral or bilateral
Although the defect can be found at any level, the commonest vertebra involved is the L5.
Spondylolysis
In cases of bilateral spondylolysis, the posterior articulations can no longer provide the posterior stability, and anterior slipping of the L5 vertebra over the sacrum could result.
This slip is called Spondylolisthesis.
Spondylolysis is the MCC of spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra
slips forward in relation to an adjacent vertebra, usually in the lumbar spine.
The symptoms that accompany a spondylolisthesis include pain in the low back, thighs, and/or legs, muscle spasms, weakness, and/or tight hamstring muscles.
Some people are symptom free and find the disorder exists when revealed on an x-ray.
In advanced cases, the patient may appear swayback with a protruding abdomen, exhibit a shortened torso, and present with a waddling gait.
Spondylolisthesiscan be congenital (present at birth) or
develop during childhood or later in life.
The disorder may result from the physical stresses to the spine from carrying heavy things, weightlifting, football, gymnastics, trauma, and general wear and tear.
As the vertebral components degenerate the spine's integrity is compromised.
Spondylolisthesis
Foot DropFoot Drop is an abnormal
neuromuscular (nerve and muscle) disorder that affects the patient's ability to raise their foot at the ankle.
Drop foot is further characterized by an inability to point the toes toward the body (dorsiflexion) or move the foot at the ankle inward or outward.
Pain, weakness, and numbness may accompany loss of function.
Foot Drop
Walking becomes a challenge due to the patient's inability to control the foot at the ankle.
The foot may appear floppy and the patient may drag the foot and toes while walking.
Patients with foot drop usually exhibit an exaggerated or high-stepping walk called Steppage Gait or Footdrop Gait.
Foot Drop: Causes of Injury The peroneal nerve is susceptible to
different types of injury. Some of these include nerve compression
from lumbar disc herniation (e.g. L4, L5, S1), trauma to the sciatic nerve, spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, spinal cord injury, bone fractures (leg, vertebrae), stroke, tumor, diabetes, lacerations, gunshot wounds, or crush-type injuries.
Drop foot is found in some patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson's Disease.
Sometimes the peroneal nerve becomes injured when stretched during hip or knee replacement surgery.
Herniated Disc
Herniation of the nucleus pulposus (HNP) occurs when the nucleus pulposus (gel-like substance) breaks through the anulus fibrosus (tire-like structure) of an intervertebral disc.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc occurs most often in the lumbar region of the spine especially at the L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels
This is because the lumbar spine carries most of the body's weight.
Herniated Disc
People between the ages of 30-50 appear to be vulnerable because the elasticity and water content of the nucleus decreases with age.
The progression to an actual HNP varies from slow to sudden onset of symptoms
Herniated Disc
There are four stages: (1) disc protrusion (2) prolapsed disc (3) disc extrusion (4) sequestered disc.
Stages 1 and 2 are referred to as incomplete, where 3 and 4 are complete herniations.
Disc Herniation
Pain resulting from herniation may be combined with a radiculopathy.
The deficit may include sensory changes (i.e. tingling, numbness) and/or motor changes (i.e. weakness, reflex loss).
caused by nerve compression
Herniated Disc Dx
– The spine is examined with the patient laying down and standing.
– Due to muscle spasm, a loss of normal spinal curvature may be noted.
– Radicular pain may increase when pressure is applied to the affected spinal level.
A Lasegue test, also known as Straight-leg Raise Test, is performed. – The patient lies down, the knee is extended, and
the hip is flexed. – If pain is aggravated or produced, it is an
indication the lower lumbosacral nerve roots are inflamed.
Herniated Disc
Other neurological tests are performed to determine loss of sensation and/or motor function. – Abnormal reflexes are noted; changes
may indicate the location of the herniation.
Radiographs are helpful, but the MRI is the best method
Cauda Equina Syndrome
occurs from a central disc herniation and is serious requiring immediate surgical intervention.
The symptoms include bilateral leg pain, loss of perianal sensation (anus), paralysis of the bladder, and weakness of the anal sphincter.
ScoliosisScoliosis is an abnormal
curvature of the spine.MC spinal deformity
evaluatedIn scoliosis, the spine curves
to the side when viewed from the front, and each vertebra also twists on the next one in a corkscrew fashion.
Girls:boys = 2:1Usually > 10 y/o
Scoliosis
In most cases (85%), the cause of scoliosis is idiopathic.
The other 15% of cases fall into 2 groups: Nonstructural (functional): a temporary
condition when the spine is otherwise normal. – The curvature occurs as the result of another
problem. – Examples include 1 leg being shorter than
another from muscle spasms or from appendicitis.
Structural: the spine is not normal– The curvature is caused by another disease
process such as a birth defect, muscular dystrophy, metabolic diseases, connective tissue disorders, or Marfan syndrome.
ScoliosisTx:
– 10-15* curve = f/u in 6 mo re-eval Forward bending, and scoliometer test
– 15-20* curve = serial XR’s Q 3-4 mo Or 6-8 mo for smaller curves or older pt’s
– >20* curve = ortho referral for possible bracing
Depending on degree and age of pt
Kyphosis Increased convex curvature of thoracic
spine (Round back) TB of spine causes progressive scoliosis
(Pott’s disease) Idiopathic (Scheuermann’s) defined as:
– anterior wedging of 5° or more in at least 3 adjacent vertebral bodies
Associated c respiratory distress Tx:
– 45-60* curve = observed 3-4 mo c PT– >60* curve or persistent pain = brace
possible surgery
Ankylosing Spondylitis Inflammation c progressive fusion of
vertebrae It is a chronic, multisystem inflammatory
disorder of the sacroiliac (SI) joints and the axial skeleton.
AS is characterized as a seronegative spondyloarthropathy.
The disorder often is found in association with other seronegative spondyloarthropathies including reactive arthritis, psoriasis, juvenile chronic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
The etiology is not understood completely; however, a strong genetic predisposition exists.
A direct relationship between AS and the major histocompatibility human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 has been determined
Involvement of the SI joints is required to establish the diagnosis
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Limited ROM Extra-articular manifestations:
– Eyes, cardiac, kidneys, & interstitial lung ds Labs:
– ESR, HLA-B27 XR:
– “Bamboo spine”– Osteopenia
Tx:– NSAIDS, PT– Tx underlying conditions– Surgery
Spine Fractures
A compression fracture is a condition in which a vertebra is crushed only in the front part of the spine, causing a wedge shape.
If a vertebra is crushed in all directions, the condition is called a burst fracture. – Burst fractures are much more severe than
compression fractures. – The bones spread out in all directions and may
damage the spinal cord. – This damage can cause paralysis or injury to the
nerves, which control the body's ability to move or feel sensations.
15-20% of thoracolumbar fractures present with a neurologic deficit
Wedge Fracture Burst Fracture
Chance Fracture
With flexion-distraction mechanisms such as those observed in passengers restrained with lap seatbelts, a progression of injury from the posterior column of the thoracolumbar spine is observed anteriorly.
The diagnosis is best made on good quality radiographs obtained in 2 planes (anteroposterior [AP] and lateral).
Chance Fracture
Prompt recognition followed by appropriate reduction and immobilization usually results in a good clinical outcome.
Always exclude associated injuries (eg, intra-abdominal trauma) at the time of presentation, as these are observed in up to 50% of cases
Chance Fracture
Chance fracture represents a pure bony injury extending from posterior to anterior through the spinous process, pedicles, and vertebral body, respectively.
This fracture most commonly is found in the upper lumbar spine, but it may be observed in the midlumbar region in children.
Chance fracture
PEARL
Non-Traumatic back pain in >~55 y/o consider AAA
Fracture
• Major trauma (motor vehicle accident, fall from height)• Minor trauma or strenuous lifting in an older or osteoporotic patient
Tumor or infection
• Age >50 years or <20 years • History of cancer
• Constitutional symptoms (fever, chills, unexplained weight loss)
• Recent bacterial infection • Intravenous drug use • Immunosuppression (corticosteroid use, transplant recipient, HIV infection)
• Pain worse at night or in the supine position
Cauda equina syndrome
• Saddle anesthesia • Recent onset of bladder dysfunction • Severe or progressive neurologic deficit in lower extremity
Fracture
• Major trauma (motor vehicle accident, fall from height)• Minor trauma or strenuous lifting in an older or osteoporotic patient
Tumor or infection
• Age >50 years or <20 years • History of cancer
• Constitutional symptoms (fever, chills, unexplained weight loss)
• Recent bacterial infection • Intravenous drug use • Immunosuppression (corticosteroid use, transplant recipient, HIV infection)
• Pain worse at night or in the supine position
Cauda equina syndrome
• Saddle anesthesia • Recent onset of bladder dysfunction • Severe or progressive neurologic deficit in lower extremity
'Red Flags' in the Medical History: Potentially Serious Conditions That May Present as Low Back PainFracture
• Major trauma (motor vehicle accident, fall from height)• Minor trauma or strenuous lifting in an older or osteoporotic patient
Tumor or infection • Age >50 years or <20 years • History of cancer • Constitutional symptoms (fever, chills, unexplained weight loss) • Recent bacterial infection • Intravenous drug use • Immunosuppression (corticosteroid use, transplant recipient, HIV infection) • Pain worse at night or in the supine position
Cauda equina syndrome• Saddle anesthesia • Recent onset of bladder dysfunction • Severe or progressive neurologic deficit in lower extremity
Meningitis is an inflammation of the leptomeninges and underlying subarachnoid cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
Encephalitis literally means an inflammation of the brain, but it usually refers to brain inflammation caused by a virus.
Meningitis myriad of infectious and noninfectious etiologies
– Streptococcus pneumoniae (1.1) in all except neonates – Neisseria meningitidis (0.6), usually local outbreaks among
young adults, epidemics internationally, and increased incidence in late winter or early spring
– Group B streptococci (0.3), in newborns – Listeria monocytogenes (0.2) in newborns, elderly, and
immunocompromised – Haemophilus influenzae, type b (0.2) in unvaccinated
children and adults Meningitis is caused by the following pathogens in
each age group: – Neonates - Group B or D streptococci, nongroup B
streptococci, Escherichia coli, and L monocytogenes– Infants and children - H influenzae (48%), S pneumoniae
(13%), and N meningitidis– Adults - S pneumoniae, (30-50%), H influenzae (1-3%), N
meningitidis (10-35%), gram-negative bacilli (1-10%), staphylococci (5-15%), streptococci (5%), and Listeria species (5%)
Meningitis Classic symptoms (not evident in infants or seen
often in the elderly) include the following:– Headache– Nuchal rigidity (generally not present in children <1 y or in
patients with altered mental status) Kernig sign: Passive knee extension in supine patient elicits
neck pain and hamstring resistance. Brudzinski sign: Passive neck or single hip flexion is
accompanied by involuntary flexion of both hips.– Fever and chills– Photophobia– Vomiting– Prodromal upper respiratory infection (URI) symptoms
(viral and bacterial)– Seizures (30-40% in children, 20-30% in adults)– Focal neurologic symptoms (including focal seizures)– Altered sensorium (confusion may be sole presenting
complaint, especially in elderly)
Meningitis
Head CTCXRLPadminister first dose(s) of antibiotics
+/- steroids within 30 minutes of presentation to ED.
Lumbar Puncture
Epidural anesthesia
Metastatic Carcinoma
Osteoporosis
Lack of matrix formation– atrophy or weightlessness. Osteoblasts perform
under pressure Decreased sex hormones:
– estrogen (esp. postmenopausal) and androgen. Cushings:
– Cortisol inhibits osteoblast activity Compression fractures of vertebra - loss of
height Osteomalacia:
– Matrix present, not calcified– Bending of long bones
'Excellence is an art won by training and habituation. We do not act rightly because we have virtue or excellence, but rather we have those because we have acted rightly. We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.' Aristotle
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Lao TsuLao Tsu ““I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to
have”.have”. Thomas JeffersonThomas Jefferson
Self conquest is the greatest of victories. Plato
“Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.”
Albert Einstein
