Anterior Cord Syndrome

Anterior cord syndrome is a spinal cord injury pattern resulting from ischemia or compression of the anterior spinal artery, affecting the anterior two-thirds of the cord. Clinically, patients exhibit bilateral motor paralysis and loss of pain and temperature sensation below the lesion, with preserved dorsal column function (vibration and proprioception). Etiologies include trauma, vascular compromise, and disc herniation. Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and MRI of the spinal cord. Management is primarily supportive, including hemodynamic optimization, surgical decompression if indicated, and rehabilitation; prognosis is variable, with significant motor deficits often persisting.