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Adult Medical-Surgical
Nursing
Neurology Module:
Spinal Cord Compression
Spinal Cord Compression:
Definition
Pressure on the spinal cord which may
lead to permanent neurological impairment
Spinal Cord Compression:
Description
Spinal cord compression is related to:
Lymphoma
Intervertebral collapse
*A tumour (most often a metastatic tumour
from a primary breast, lung, kidney or
prostate cancer, lymphoma or myeloma)
Metastatic tumours cause bone erosion
and spinal cord compression
Spinal Cord Compression:
Sites of Occurrence
Spinal cord compression occurs:
70% in the thoracic region
20% lumbar-sacral
10% cervical
Spinal Cord Compression:
Clinical Manifestations
Pain in the affected area or tracking down
the spinal canal
Numbness in extremities (↓ sensation)
Impaired motor function → flaccid
paralysis
Bladder and bowel dysfunction
(incontinence)
Spinal Cord Compression:
Diagnosis
Patient history and clinical picture
MRI
CT scan
Myelogram
Bone scan
Xrays spinal cord
Investigations for primary tumour if
suspected
Spinal Cord Compression:
Medical Management
Radiation reduces the tumour size
Steroid therapy reduces inflammation
Chemotherapy
Surgery
The patient may have residual
neurological impairment following
treatment
Spinal Cord Compression:
Nursing Considerations
Pain relief and close support
Prevention of complications of immobility:
Deep venous thrombosis
Pressure ulcers
Chest infection
Urinary stasis/ infection
Maintain muscle tone and joint mobility
Bladder/ bowel training
Spinal Cord Compression:
Family Support
Emotional support to patient and family to
assist coping with all aspects of what may
be a progressive condition with a poor
prognosis