Geriatric Spinal Injury

Geriatric spinal injury has unique mechanisms, confounding treatment factors, and outcomes. Mechanisms of injury frequently involve low velocity falls, as opposed to the high velocity traumas responsible for most other spinal cord injuries. Age-related comorbidities such as cervical spondylosis, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and neuromuscular disorders play into the pathophysiology of injury in this population. Three common injuries encountered include central cord injury, cervical extension distraction injuries, and odontoid fractures. Treatment is aimed at balancing safety of surgery with risks of nonoperative management. Understanding features unique to geriatric spinal injury is important in maximizing recovery.