Cauda equina syndrome and spinal cord injuries are ensued as a sequele of back trauma which is major part in industrial accidents.
In cauda equina syndrome, it is very difficult to evaluate and diagnose because of subjectivity, especially in mild and moderate cases.
76 cases of cauda equina syndrome were reviewed from 423 cases studied electrophysiologically in 669 back trauma patients.
The cases were evaluated with causes, symptoms, and clinical signs.
@ES The results were as follows.
@EN 1) The causes of cauda equina syndrome were compression fracture (61.8%), herniated disc (32.9%), spinal stenosis (9.2%) and so forth. Operative managements were performed in 73.7% of patients with cauda equina syndromes.
2) 40.8% of patietns could ambulate by the use of orthosis or assistive devices.
3) The degrees of pain were severe (40.8%), moderate (55.3%), mild (3.9%).
The results demonstrate that the major clinical feature of cauda equina syndrome, which is noted in 11.4% of patients with back trauma, is rather pain than weakness or sphincter problems.
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