Question #241
Following a fracture of C7 and damage of the spinal cord at that level. What is the most likely clincal finding?
Damage of the spinal cord at the level of C7 is likely to result in upper motor neuron signs from the level of C8 nerve root downwards:
- Weakness of wrist extension
- Weakness of intrinsic muscles of the hand
- Spastic paralysis of the lower limb
- Loss of bladder and bowel control
- Numbness from the medial aspect of upper limbs and torso downwards
The phrenic nerve C3,4,5 is required for diaphragmatic respiration and so will not be affected.
Biceps tendon reflex is C5,6 and so will not be affected.
None of the cranial nerves will be damaged so ptosis is unlikely, similarly the cervical sympathetic chain lies outside of the vertebral column so this is also unlikely to be involved.