Complete spinal cord injuries

Complete spinal cord injury (SCI) in children refers to the total loss of motor and sensory function below the level of injury, due to a complete disruption of the spinal cord pathways. This devastating condition can have long-lasting effects on a child’s mobility, sensation, and quality of life. In Bangladesh, rising incidents of road traffic accidents, falls, and birth trauma have led to an increased need for specialized pediatric spinal care. Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman, a leading pediatric neurosurgeon in Bangladesh, offers advanced diagnostic and surgical solutions for children suffering from complete spinal cord injuries, focusing on preserving neurological function and improving outcomes through a multidisciplinary approach. Causes of Complete Spinal Cord Injuries in Children (Bangladesh Context) Pediatric SCIs may result from: Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs): Especially as passengers on motorcycles or rickshaws without protective gear Falls from Height: Common in rural and urban Bangladesh due to rooftop access and lack of safety rails Birth Trauma: Traumatic delivery can lead to upper cervical spinal cord injuries in neonates Sports and Physical Activities: Trampoline injuries, gymnastics, or diving into shallow water Acts of Violence or Abuse: Though rare, child abuse may result in severe spinal trauma Spinal Tumors or Infections: Can compress the spinal cord completely in advanced stages Congenital Conditions (e.g., myelomeningocele): Leading to spinal instability or injury Clinical Presentation of Complete Spinal Cord Injuries Children with complete SCIs typically present with: Complete paralysis (quadriplegia or paraplegia) below the level of injury Total loss of sensation, including touch, pain, temperature, and proprioception Loss of bladder and bowel control Flaccid or spastic limbs, depending on injury phase Absent reflexes in the acute phase, progressing to exaggerated reflexes later Spinal shock in the early hours following trauma Respiratory difficulties in high cervical injuries (C1–C4) Early recognition of these signs and rapid intervention are critical to prevent complications. Diagnosis and Imaging Accurate diagnosis is vital for determining the extent of injury and planning treatment: MRI Spine: The gold standard for assessing cord compression, transection, and soft tissue injury CT Scan: Helps identify vertebral fractures and alignment X-ray: Initial evaluation in trauma settings Neurophysiological Testing: Somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP) and motor evoked potentials (MEP) to assess functional loss Urodynamic Studies: To evaluate bladder dysfunction Treatment by Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman While complete spinal cord injuries often cannot be reversed, timely and appropriate neurosurgical intervention and rehabilitation can greatly improve quality of life and functional independence. Surgical Management Spinal Decompression and Stabilization: Early surgical decompression may prevent further damage and help stabilize the spine Realignment of Dislocated Vertebrae using advanced spinal instrumentation Tumor or Abscess Removal if the injury is due to space-occupying lesions Correction of Congenital Anomalies causing instability Non-Surgical Management Medical Stabilization: Including corticosteroids (in selected cases), blood pressure support, and respiratory care Bladder and Bowel Management: Via catheterization, medications, and dietary modifications Rehabilitation Therapy: Comprehensive physical therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive devices Psychosocial Support: For both the child and family to adjust to life with a spinal cord injury Orthotic Support: Custom braces to stabilize the spine or assist with movement Long-Term Complications Children with complete SCI require long-term surveillance to prevent and manage complications such as: Pressure sores Urinary tract infections (UTIs) Scoliosis and spinal deformity Contractures and muscle atrophy Neurogenic bladder and bowel issues Psychological and social challenges Rehabilitation and Life After Injury Early and sustained rehabilitation is essential for children to regain independence and adapt to their abilities. Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman collaborates with pediatric physiotherapists, rehabilitation experts, and orthotists to provide a personalized plan for: Mobility training using wheelchairs or walkers Strength building and muscle re-education Home and school adaptation Vocational training for adolescents Why Choose Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman for Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury Management in Bangladesh? Extensive experience in complex pediatric spinal surgeries Advanced surgical techniques tailored to growing children Multidisciplinary care approach involving neurology, rehabilitation, and neuropsychology State-of-the-art facilities at National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS) Compassionate, family-centered care at Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre Contact for Pediatric Spinal Neurosurgery in Bangladesh 📌 Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman Assistant Professor, Pediatric Neurosurgery, NINS Chief Consultant, Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre 📞 For Appointment or Emergency Support: 📱 +8801912988182 | +8801607033535 🌐 Visit: www.neurosurgeonnafaur.com