Central Cord Syndrome(CCS; Central Cervical Cord Syndrome; Central Cord Injury; Injury, Central Cord; Paralysis, Upper Extremity; Syndrome, Central Cord; Syndrome, Central Cervical Cord; Upper Extremity Paralysis; Acute Central Cord Syndrome)Pronounced: SEN-tral CORD SIN-droh-m
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Mary Cresse DefinitionCentral cord syndrome (CCS) is a type of incomplete spinal cord injury. CCS is marked by damage to the nerve fibers that bring messages from the brain to the body. This condition affects how you can use your arms and hands, and in some cases, your legs. There may be a loss of sensation and motor control.
CausesCCS is caused by damage to the central part of the spinal cord. This damage may occur when the neck is hyperextended. This can be associated with:
Common causes of injury include:
CSS can also be due to:
Risk FactorsMales over 50 are more likely to have this condition. Other factors that increase your chance of CCS include:
SymptomsSymptoms of CCS may include:
If CCS is due to trauma, symptoms usually come quickly. Sometimes, however, symptoms may come more slowly. DiagnosisYou will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. A neurologic exam may also be done. Images may be taken of your spinal cord. These can be done with: TreatmentTalk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Rehab can take a long time for some people. If you are young and have more muscle function, you have a better chance of recovering. Treatment options include the following: Nonsurgical TreatmentIn most cases, surgery is not needed. Often treatment involves:
SurgerySurgery is needed if there is a large compression of the spinal cord fibers. Surgery may also be done after a period of recovery. For example, if you still have cord compression after a recovery period. PreventionTo help reduce your chance of a spinal cord injury:
RESOURCES:Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation http://www.christopherreeve.org National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke http://www.ninds.nih.gov CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Spinal Research Organization http://www.csro.com Spinal Cord Research Centre http://www.scrc.umanitoba.ca References:Cortez R, Levi AD. Acute spinal cord injury.
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Acta Neurochir (Wein). 2003;145(9): 799-804. Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Rimas Lukas, MD Last Updated: 12/20/2014 |
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