DIAGNOSIS OF TRAUMATIC SPINAL CORD INJURIES

Abstract

Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSI) is a serious and debilitating condition that demands an immediate and accurate diagnostic approach to identify the extent of neural damage and preserve remaining function. This study constituted a narrative literature review, aiming to synthesize recent scientific evidence related to the diagnosis of TSIs, using the descriptors "Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries" and "Diagnosis" in the PubMed database. The results indicate that the gold standard for clinical evaluation is the use of the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI) in conjunction with the American Spinal Injury Association (AIS) disability scale, which are essential for quantifying motor and sensory loss. In radiological evaluation, Computed Tomography (CT) is the first line to assess bone integrity, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is indispensable for visualizing soft tissue damage, such as spinal cord edema and intraparenchymal hemorrhages. Clinical evidence reinforces the importance of early surgical decompression, ideally performed within 24 hours of trauma, to optimize motor recovery, especially in incomplete cervical injuries. Early integration and recognition of these diagnostic protocols are crucial for monitoring patient progress and improving long-term functional outcomes.