injuries and poisoning
Spinal Cord Injury in Children
Diagnosis of Spinal Cord Injury in Children
X-rays Usually computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging Doctors are alert for spinal cord injury in any child who has been in a motor vehicle crash, has fallen from a height greater than about 9 feet (3 meters), or has had a submersion (for example, diving) injury. Suspicion is higher in children who had any symptoms suggestive of nerve injury, such as tingling, weakness, or shooting pains. Imaging usually begins with x-rays. If a fracture, dislocation, or partial dislocation is suspected based on x-ray findings or because of the way the injury occurred, computed tomography (CT) is usually done. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is usually also done. Sometimes a spinal cord injury may not be seen on imaging tests. 