Core Questions

 

Outline the Denis Classification system for determining the stability of spinal injuries List 5 flexion, 2 flexion-rotation, 3 extension, and 2 vertical compression spinal injuries (Table 36.1) Wedge Fracture  Flexion Teardrop Fracture Clay Shoveler’s Fracture Spinal Subluxation Bilateral Facet Dislocation Altlanto-occipital Dislocation Anterior Atlanto-axial Dislocation Unilateral Facet Dislocation Posterior Neural Arch Fracture Hangman’s Fracture Extension Tear Drop Fracture Burst Fracture Jefferson Fracture Outline the mechanisms and potential complications of the following injuries: How are odontoid fractures classified and what causes them? Organize the spinal motor, sensory, and reflex examinations based on spinal levels. (Tables 36.3, 36.4, 36.5) Central Cord Anterior Cord Brown-Sequard Detail the following cord syndromes:  List the components of the following imaging decision-making tools: Canadian C-Spine Rule, NEXUS C-Spine Rule.

 

Wisecracks

 

How do you calculate Power’s Ratio and why is it important? What injuries is the open-mouth odontoid radiograph best at visualizing? How are whiplash-associated injuries classified? At what spinal level would you expect an injury to potentially cause Horner's Syndrome? What is spinal shock and what physical exam finding indicates its end?