An ischaemic stroke occurring in the anterior two-thirds of the spinal cord, typically due to disruption in the blood flow from the anterior spinal artery

Aetiology

• Damage to the aorta
  • Aortic aneurysm repair
  • Aortic dissection
• Atherosclerosis
• Cardiac arrest
• Cardiac emboli
• Vasculitis
• Shock

Clinical features

• Loss of pain sensation (analgesia)
• Loss of temperature sensation (thermoanesthesia)
• Motor function impairment
• Loss of autonomic functions
• Dorsal column function preserved in all patients

Investigations

• MRI

Management

• Treat underlying cause of the infarction if possible
  • e.g. may involve surgical interventions in case of aortic aneurysm or dissection
• Supportive management includes:
  • Pain control
  • Physiotherapy for motor function improvement
  • Management of autonomic dysfunctions
  • Skin care for preventing pressure sores