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  4. Brown-Séquard Syndrome Following a Thoracic Spine Stab Wound: A Case Report

Brown-Séquard Syndrome Following a Thoracic Spine Stab Wound: A Case Report

Cureus, 2023 · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.46917 · Published: October 12, 2023

NeurologyTraumaRehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This case report describes a rare spinal cord injury (SCI) caused by a stab wound, leading to Brown-Séquard syndrome (BSS). BSS involves specific neurological deficits due to damage to one side of the spinal cord. The patient, a 28-year-old man, sustained a knife injury to his thoracic spine during a violent altercation. He underwent surgery and rehabilitation. The study highlights the complexities in managing penetrating SCIs, especially regarding the decision between surgical and non-surgical approaches, and the importance of tailored rehabilitation programs.

Study Duration
Not specified
Participants
28-year-old man with a history of substance use
Evidence Level
Case Report

Key Findings

  • 1
    The patient was diagnosed with Brown-Séquard syndrome (BSS) with paraplegia AIS C NLI T8, along with a sensorimotor lesion of the radial nerve.
  • 2
    Post-rehabilitation, the patient achieved independence in transfers, exhibited a robust palmar grip in the left hand, and attained knee flexion in the right leg against the force of gravity.
  • 3
    Imaging studies, including CT and MRI, were crucial in delineating the trajectory of the knife and assessing the extent of spinal cord damage.

Research Summary

This case report presents a detailed account of a 28-year-old man who developed Brown-Séquard syndrome (BSS) following a thoracic spine stab wound. The patient underwent surgical intervention to remove the knife, followed by an intensive physical medicine and rehabilitation (PMR) program. The patient demonstrated substantial progress after a 30-day inpatient rehabilitation program, achieving independence in transfers, improved upper limb strength, and enhanced mobility in the right leg. The study emphasizes the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with penetrating spinal cord injuries (SCIs) and underscores the importance of individualized treatment approaches, including conservative management when appropriate.

Practical Implications

Diagnostic Imaging Importance

Emphasizes the necessity of imaging studies like CT and MRI to accurately assess the extent of damage in penetrating SCIs.

Individualized Treatment Plans

Highlights the importance of tailoring treatment strategies based on the specific characteristics of the injury, favoring conservative management when possible.

Rehabilitation Focus

Underlines the critical role of PMR programs in maximizing functional recovery, independence, and overall participation in patients with BSS following penetrating SCIs.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Single case report limits generalizability.
  • 2
    Lack of long-term follow-up data.
  • 3
    Not specified

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