High Cervical Spinal Cord Injury without Respiratory or Cardiovascular Compromise: A Rare Event and Its Management

Abstract High cervical spinal cord injuries (SCIs) resulting from road traffic accidents (RTAs) often lead to serious respiratory and cardiovascular issues. This case report details an unusual instance of a C3-C4 SCI that did not present these complications and discusses its management. A 50-year-old man experienced a C3-C4 SCI in an RTA. Even though he was completely quadriplegic (American Spinal Injury Association grade A), he maintained normal respiratory function and stable cardiovascular readings. A magnetic resonance imaging revealed a contusion at the C3-C4 level. He was treated with injection methylprednisolone and underwent a C3-C4 laminectomy. After the surgery, he showed remarkable improvement in both motor and sensory functions. Throughout his hospital stay, there were no signs of respiratory or cardiovascular distress. This unique case underscores the diverse presentations of SCI, particularly high SCI without respiratory and cardiovascular issues, and suggests that early intervention and rehabilitation can lead to positive outcomes. Additionally, this report sheds light on the importance of early diagnosis, treatment, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation, which can facilitate significant recovery with minimal morbidity or mortality. More research is needed to better understand such atypical cases.