Acute spinal cord injury: pathophysiology and therapeutic options – review

Spinal cord trauma can result in permanent disability and its treatment remains a challenge. Spinal cord injury triggers a sequence of vascular, biochemical and inflammatory events that result in the development of secondary tissue lesions. The secondary injury leads to progressive destruction of neuronal tissue with frequently irreversible consequences to the patient's motor and sensory functions. Studies have increased the understand of the mechanisms of spinal cord injury. But despite decades of research aiming at funcional recovery and improved quality of life of patients, treatment for this condition is still frustrating. This article compiles academic information on pathophysiology and main therapeutic approaches for spinal cord injury.