MANAGEMENT OF CERVICAL SPINE INJURIES IN A NEUROSURGICAL DEPARTMENT IN A LOW INCOME COUNTRY

Introduction: Cervical spine injuries are common and often threaten functional even vital prognosis. The complexity of the lesions and their classification make their management difficult even though it is now supported by specialized technology. The aim of this study was to evaluate the management of cervical trauma patients in our department. Material And Methods: We conducted a retrospective and descriptive study from January 2016 to July 2019 of all patients who presented to the neurosurgery department of Hospital general Idrissa Pouye (ex HOGGY) with a cervical spine injury. We studied their epidemiological, diagnostic, therapeutic and outcome aspects. Results: Sixty-three (63) cases were included with a sex ratio of 4.25. The mean age was 33 years [range, 4 - 63 years]. Road traffic accident was the main cause of injury (56%). Mean time of presentation of injured patient was 8.9 days [extremes : 1h ; 93days]. In our study, 44,4% of patients had ASIA A scoring and 9.5% ASIA E. The most affected level was C5-C6 (49.2%). The mean time from admission to surgery was 22,4 days. The Anterolateral approach was performed in 92,8% of patients. The most observed complications during hospitalization were bedsores (22.4%) and urinary tract infections (17.7%). The evolution was good in 62% of cases. Eight (8) deaths were noted, including five (5) prior to surgery. Conclusion: Cervical spine injuries are a public health concern closely linked to the growing fleet of vehicles in developing countries such as Senegal. The process of emergency care is still difficult.