Brain and Spine, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bas.2023.102702 · Published: October 21, 2023
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI) are significant public health concerns due to their associated mortality and morbidity. TBI and SCI can coexist, posing clinical challenges, such as spinal precautions potentially worsening intracranial pressure and complicating intensive care. The incidence of concurrent TBI and SCI, known as tandem neurotrauma, is poorly characterized, with varying reports.
Recognizing tandem neurotrauma can help clinicians anticipate increased care needs, such as ICU admission and multiple surgeries.
Developing specific rehabilitation strategies for tandem neurotrauma patients can improve functional outcomes.
Additional research is needed to identify risk factors and determinants of outcome in tandem neurotrauma.