ABSTRACT
To determine the extent of spinal cord injuries among patients affected by the earth quake of October 8[th] 2005 in Pakistan. Cross-sectional study. The study was conducted from 10[th] October to 10[th] December 2005 in surgical and neurosurgical units of Rawalpindi Medical College and allied hospitals [Holy family hospital, Rawalpindi general hospital and District Headquarter hospital] and Melody relief and rehabilitation center, Islamabad. Level and patterns of spinal cord injuries was evaluated according to ASIA [American spinal injuries association] scoring system in one hundred and ninety four patients. Stability of spine and number of patients operated for spinal cord injuries was also assessed. One hundred and ninety four patients comprised of 74%[n=144] females and 26%[n=50] males. 78%[n=151] patients were of 16-39 years of age. 62%[n=120] of patients had injury at lumbar level, 25%[n=48] at thoracic level, 9%[n=18] at thoracolumbar level, a few had injuries at cervical and sacral level. 46.4%[n=90] patients had spinal cord injuries which were graded "A" according to ASIA scoring system. 4.12%[n=8] graded as "B",10.82%[n=21] graded as "C",9.2% [n=18] graded as "D" and 13.91% [n=27] graded as "E". In 69%[n=134] patients` spine was stable and 31%[n=60] had unstable spine. 77% [ n=150] patients were operated and in 23%[ n=44] patients, operation was not indicated. Majority of spinal cord injuries occurred at thoracolumbar level leading to paraplegia. Those with ASIA score "A" would be bedridden for life. Proper rehabilitation programs should be inculcated to enable them to live an independent life