Spinal cord injury in adult and pediatric populations

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating neurologic disorder that can result in significant morbidity and mortality, as well as long term disability. Pediatric spinal cord injuries account for only 5% of all spinal cord injuries. Understanding differences in anatomic and epidemiologic characteristics between pediatric and adult SCI is paramount to the accurate evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of this potentially debilitating pathology. Standardized neurological examination and dedicated spine imaging guide optimal management. For both adult and pediatric populations, medical optimization and surgical decompression, stabilization, and/or fusion in select patient groups comprise the foundation of high-quality SCI care. Research into novel therapeutics, however, may afford improved functional outcomes. In the present review, we discuss differences between pediatric and adult patients with spinal cord injury as they pertain to patient anatomy, evaluation, management, and medical complications.