Evaluation of acute respiratory failure after cervical spinal cord injury in Mashhad Shahid Kamyab Hospital

Introduction:Acuterespiratory  complications are common in patients with cervical spinal cord injury. These complications can increase mortality and morbidity rates. The aim of this study is to specify the complications after traumatic cervical spinal cord injury, management of these patients and to select the appropriate remedial and preventive measures.
Materials and Methods: This study has been performed retrospectively in Shahid Kamyab ICU wards for 2.5 years in patient group with cervical cord injury. The severity of injury had been scored based on Frankel scoring. We completed the charts for clinical and neurological findings, the remedial ways and the results. Finally, statistical analysis has been accomplished.
Results: From 592 patients being admitted with spinal trauma, 61 cases had cervical spine injury. 27 patients (44.3%) had been hospitalized in ICU for respiratory problems. Methyl prednisolon succinate has been used only for 4 patients. There was not any difference in this group versus control group. 23 patients (85.18%) had been scored in Frankel A. Mortality rate was 11 cases (40.7%). Tracheostomy had been used for patients with prolonged intubation and respiratory infection.
Conclusion: Respiratory complications after cervical spinal cord injury are common and are accompanied by numerous complications and even mortality. We can reduce the mortality and morbidity rates in these patients by paying attention to these complications and using the immediate and appropriate ways of treating.