Charcot spinal arthropathy: an increasing long-term sequel after spinal cord injury with no straightforward management

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2015 · DOI: 10.1038/scsandc.2015.22 · Published: October 8, 2015

Spinal Cord Injury Surgery Spinal Disorders

Simple Explanation

Charcot spinal arthropathy (CSA) is most likely increasing in patients suffering from consequences of spinal cord injury. The study highlights initial symptoms, certain risk factors and perioperative complications of this condition. The study describes four female paraplegic patients who developed Charcot spinal arthropathies, with a mean time lag of 29.5 years after the accident before CSA was diagnosed. Charcot spine is an important potential sequel of spinal cord injury, which can lead to signiﬁcant disability and spinal emergencies in affected individuals.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Four female paraplegic patients

Evidence Level

Retrospective case series

Key Findings

1
Charcot spinal arthropathy (CSA) is most likely increasing in patients suffering from consequences of spinal cord injury.
2
Posterior ﬁxation alone does not seem to be sufﬁcient in treating CSA.
3
Conservative treatment is an option for managing Charcot spinal arthropathy.

Research Summary

This study highlights the increasing prevalence of Charcot spinal arthropathy (CSA) in patients with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It emphasizes the importance of understanding initial symptoms, risk factors, and potential surgical pitfalls. The retrospective case series of four female paraplegic patients revealed that the time lag between the initial SCI and the diagnosis of CSA averaged 29.5 years. The study also discussed the challenges in managing Charcot spine, including the limitations of posterior fixation alone. The authors suggest that regular, long-term clinical and radiological follow-up of spinal cord-injured patients in specialized centers is crucial due to the vague clinical presentation and potentially severe clinical impact of CSA.

Practical Implications

Improved Diagnosis

Increased awareness of CSA's initial symptoms and risk factors among clinicians can lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention.

Optimized Treatment Strategies

The study suggests that posterior fixation alone may not be sufficient, prompting further research into more effective surgical approaches.

Enhanced Follow-up Care

The emphasis on regular long-term follow-up highlights the need for specialized centers to monitor SCI patients for the development of CSA.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size (four patients).
2
Retrospective study design.
3
The fact, that only female patients are described here, although a clear male predominance has been reported, might just be a coincidence.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury