Trauma - Recognizing and Managing Subacute Ascending Myelopathy Post-SCI

This episode delves into the rare and often fatal complication of Subacute Post-traumatic Ascending Myelopathy (SPAM) following cervical spinal cord injury. Based on an abstract from the Turkish Journal of Trauma & Emergency Surgery in 2026, we explore a case presentation of a 38-year-old male who experienced rapid neurological deterioration postoperatively after a C6-7 injury. The discussion highlights the diagnostic challenges, particularly with imaging limitations, and emphasizes the critical importance of clinical vigilance in identifying this progressive neurological decline. We discuss the clinical course, potential pathophysiology, and the need for continued case reporting to improve understanding and management strategies for this devastating complication. This content is for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.