Treatment of central cord syndrome without associated spinal instability

Central cord syndrome (CCS) is a form of incomplete spinal cord injury defined by more severe dysfunction in the upper extremities than the lower extremities. Although it is one of the most common entities encountered in the setting of acute trauma, various controversies still exist regarding its optimal treatment and decisions regarding surgery for the condition. In this article, we focus on the role of non-surgical treatment and the optimal timing of surgical decompression for CCS without spinal instability. Prognostic factors investigated in this specific population will be also discussed.