Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN) Practice Exam

Hyperflexion of the neck can lead to which type of cord syndrome?

1. Anterior cord syndrome

2. Posterior cord syndrome

3. Brown-Sequard syndrome

4. Complete cord syndrome

The correct answer is: Anterior cord syndrome

Hyperflexion of the neck can lead to anterior cord syndrome due to the specific mechanics involved in hyperflexion injuries. In this type of injury, the front part of the spinal cord is more vulnerable to damage. This occurs because hyperflexion can cause compression of the spinal cord at the anterior aspect while potentially sparing the posterior structures. Anterior cord syndrome is characterized by a loss of motor function and a loss of pain and temperature sensation below the level of the injury, while proprioception and light touch may remain intact because the posterior columns of the spinal cord, which carry these sensations, are less affected. This syndrome is often associated with injuries that compress the anterior portion of the spinal cord, such as in cases of severe flexion movements leading to a fracture-dislocation or a herniated disc that displaces anteriorly. In contrast, other types of cord syndromes, such as Brown-Sequard syndrome, arise from hemisection (one side) of the spinal cord, which leads to specific sensory and motor deficits on one side of the body. Complete cord syndrome represents total loss of function below the level of injury, which may not directly result from hyperflexion alone as it often involves a more extensive injury. Posterior cord syndrome,