Unstable spinal cord fractures are serious injuries that require prompt and accurate diagnosis to prevent potentially life-altering consequences.
In this blog post, the second in our three-part series, I explain an unstable spinal cord fracture, how to properly diagnose, and the serious outcomes that can result if these injuries are overlooked. Understanding the signs and symptoms of these fractures is crucial for medical professionals and patients, ensuring timely intervention and optimal recovery.
What is an Unstable Spinal Cord Fracture?
Spinal cord fractures are severe injuries that demand prompt and accurate diagnosis to prevent devastating consequences. While some fractures are easily recognized, others can be subtle, particularly when they are unstable. Unstable spinal cord fractures pose significant risks, as delayed diagnosis can lead to worsening outcomes.
The instability of these particular fractures refers to a disruption in the normal alignment and function of the spinal column, which can compromise spinal cord integrity and neurological function. Patients with unstable fractures may not always present with classic symptoms or visible signs of injury. For example, mild pain, discomfort, or minimal neurological deficits can sometimes mask the presence of a serious fracture.
How to Diagnose an Unstable Spinal Cord Fracture?
While useful, X-ray imaging may not detect fractures involving complex bony structures or those without visible displacement. Advanced imaging techniques like CT scans and MRI are critical for diagnosing unstable fractures. MRI is particularly valuable for detecting non-displaced or subtle fractures. CT imaging is typically used to assess for bone fractures whereas MRI can be used to evaluate soft tissue damage, spinal cord involvement, and assess the extent of instability.
It is critical that a physician obtain a thorough history from the patient, including the mechanism of injury, and conduct a complete neurological examination to identify any subtle deficits or changes in function.
Undiagnosed Spinal Cord Fracture
Unstable spinal cord fractures can lead to progressive spinal cord damage, resulting in permanent neurological deficits, including paralysis, loss of sensation, and impaired motor function. As a result, long-term consequences can include significant impacts on mobility, independence, and overall quality of life, necessitating extensive rehabilitation and ongoing care.
Hope Starts Here
If you or a loved one has sustained a serious spinal cord injury and you believe medical malpractice may have played a role, it is in your best interest to speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights.
When you contact the medical malpractice team at Howie, Sacks & Henry LLP for a no cost, no obligation initial consultation, we will listen to your story with great empathy, take time to answer your questions, and outline options available to you as you seek justice.
If we believe we can secure you a fair settlement or court award for damages, we will gladly offer to become your tireless advocate and trusted legal representative. By providing legal services on a contingency basis, we only receive compensation for our work if you receive compensation for your injuries.
A serious spinal injury can significantly change your life's direction. At a moment when the future looks worryingly uncertain, let our team help you see that better days are ahead. Because at HSH LLP, Hope Starts Here. To learn more about how we can help you, contact me today.
Learn More
To learn more, please read Part 1 (Not Seeing The Full Picture: Diagnostic Imaging and Spinal Cord Injury Misdiagnosis) and Part 3 (Spinal Cord Abscess: Identifying Symptoms and Risks of Delayed Diagnosis) of the series.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.