Complete lesion at C4 level of cervical spinal cord Save
ICD-10 code: S14.114
Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes
Complete Lesion at C4 Level of Cervical Spinal Cord
A complete lesion at the C4 level of the cervical spinal cord is a serious injury that can result in varying degrees of paralysis. The cervical spinal cord is the uppermost part of the spinal cord, located in the neck region, and is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
When the spinal cord is injured, messages from the brain cannot get through, leading to paralysis and loss of sensation below the site of the injury. A complete lesion at the C4 level means that the spinal cord is completely severed at that point, resulting in paralysis of the arms, legs, and torso.
There are several causes of a complete lesion at the C4 level, including traumatic injuries such as car accidents, falls, or sports injuries. Other causes may include medical conditions such as tumors, infections, or degenerative diseases.
There is no cure for a complete spinal cord injury, but there are treatments and therapies available to help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. These may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive devices such as wheelchairs or braces.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help with exercises and stretching to prevent muscle atrophy and improve mobility. They may also use electrical stimulation or other modalities to help improve muscle strength and function.
- Occupational therapy: An occupational therapist can help with activities of daily living such as dressing, grooming, and eating, and may recommend assistive devices to help with these tasks.
- Assistive devices: Wheelchairs, braces, and other devices can help individuals with a complete lesion at the C4 level to maintain mobility and independence.
It is important to work with a medical team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for a complete lesion at the C4 level of the cervical spinal cord. This may include specialists such as neurologists, physiatrists, and rehabilitation specialists.
In conclusion, a complete lesion at the C4 level of the cervical spinal cord is a serious injury that can result in paralysis and loss of sensation. While there is no cure, there are treatments and therapies available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.