Correlation Between Neuro-Ortho Clinical Findings and Radiological Patterns in Cervical Spine Trauma

Abstract

Objective:  To evaluate the correlation between neuro-orthopedic clinical findings and radiological imaging patterns in patients presenting with cervical spine trauma at a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods:  A prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Radiology and Orthopedics, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar. A total of 354 patients aged 14 years and above with suspected or confirmed cervical spine trauma were enrolled. Detailed clinical neuro-orthopedic examinations were performed using the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) scale. All patients underwent CT and MRI cervical spine imaging. Clinical findings were correlated with radiological injury patterns. Results:  The mean age of patients was 37.2 ± 10.8 years, with a male predominance (65.5%). Road traffic accidents were the leading cause of injury (59.3%). The most frequent radiological findings were compression fractures (39.5%) and spinal cord signal changes (14.7%). ASIA grades C and D were most common. A statistically significant moderate positive correlation was observed between spinal cord signal changes on MRI and severity of neurological deficit (r = 0.61, p < 0.001). Conclusion:  There is a strong association between clinical neurological impairment and radiological abnormalities in cervical spine trauma. Incorporating MRI with clinical evaluation improves diagnostic accuracy and assists in prognostication. Multidisciplinary neuro-ortho-radiological assessment is crucial for optimal management of cervical spine injuries.