Assessment of the Knowledge of Doctors Working in Emergency Care Units on the Emergency Management of Spinal Cord Trauma

Abstract

The spine plays a crucial role in supporting body weight, enabling head and trunk movement, and protecting the spinal cord, which connects the brain to the rest of the body and ensures motor and sensory functions through complex neural pathways. Given its importance, spinal fractures, dislocations, and fracture-dislocations are among the most severe injuries due to the high risk of spinal cord injury, which is often irreversible. These injuries commonly result from traffic accidents, sports injuries, falls from height or from standing (particularly in the elderly), and diving into shallow water. Recognizing the importance of early intervention in patients with spinal cord trauma (SCT) to minimize adverse outcomes, this study aims to assess the knowledge of physicians regarding the emergency management of SCT. To achieve this, interviews were conducted with resident physicians, medical professors, and physician assistants working in emergency care units in the city of Campinas, Brazil. A deeper understanding of these professionals’ practices will contribute to developing targeted training programs and standardizing initial medical care protocols, ultimately improving patient recovery and quality of life.