Extensive Cervical Spinal Cord Hemorrhagic Infraction Secondary to Prolonged Hyperflexion of the Neck Causing Quadriplegia

Abstract

A young lady was brought to the emergency department after she was found unconscious sitting in her restroom for several hours. She was found to have decreased sensations below her neck and was unable to move any extremity. Multilevel imaging studies were obtained that revealed extensive areas of cervical spinal cord hemorrhagic infarction, postulated to be due to hyperflexion of her neck resulting in vascular compromise, which were inoperable and rendered her quadriplegic. She required intensive physical rehabilitation and was transferred to a specialist center for further treatment.