Spine Trauma Treatment Options

Spine trauma — such as spinal cord injuries, pain and deformity — is often caused by high-velocity and high-impact incidents such as car accidents or serious falls and is often associated with other injuries (including musculoskeletal or abdominal cavity injuries). Early surgical interventions can prevent neurological deterioration and even reverse neurological injury. Surgery can decrease pain and can provide immediate spinal stability for unstable injuries in a critically ill patient and prevent delayed spinal deformities.

Why Choose Us?

  • For nearly a decade, our team of specially trained physicians has performed hundreds of minimally invasive spine surgeries
  • Sharp Memorial Hospital is one of the few hospitals in San Diego that performs minimally invasive spine surgery
  • We are committed to providing a patient-centered experience by treating each patient with personal, expert care and developing a treatment plan specially designed for each patient
  • We use the latest, state-of-the-art surgical technology, including Nuvasive®, a minimally invasive surgery which usually results in shorter operative time and hospital stay, less pain and scarring and faster recovery for patients.

Other Treatment Options for Spine Trauma

  • Experimental Treatments —Scientists are attempting to stop cell death, control inflammation and promote nerve regeneration. Ask your doctor about the availability of such treatments.
  • Immobilization — You may need traction to stabilize your spine, to bring the spine into proper alignment or both. Sometimes, traction is accomplished by securing metal braces, attached to weights or a body harness, to your skull to keep your head from moving. In some cases, a rigid neck collar also may work. A special bed may also help immobilize your body.
  • Medications — Methylprednisolone (Medrol) is a treatment option for an acute spinal cord injury. Some patients experience mild improvement from their spinal cord injury if they receive the drug within eight hours of injury. It appears to work by reducing damage to nerve cells and decreasing inflammation near the site of injury. However, this is not a cure for a spinal cord injury.
  • Surgery — Surgery is often necessary to remove fragments of bones, foreign objects, herniated disks or fractured vertebrae that appear to be compressing the spine. Surgery may also be needed to stabilize the spine to prevent future pain or deformity. Sharp HealthCare use the latest, state-of-the-art surgical technology, including Nuvasive®, which usually results in shorter operative time and hospital stay, less pain and scarring and faster recovery for patients.

Patient Resources

For More Information
To learn more about orthopedics at Sharp or to find a Sharp-affiliated doctor, search for San Diego orthopedic surgeons or call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. To find general information about orthopedics, visit Orthopedic Surgery in Adult Health or read the Orthopedics News archive.