Gunshot face as a cause of hyperextension central cord syndrome in a young patient

Abstract

Central cord syndrome (CCS) is a syndrome where the patient's upper limbs are more severely affected than the lower limbs in terms of neurological deficit. This is typically found in an elderly patient with pre-existing spondylosis and a minor hyperextension injury. This case report highlights an unusual cause of CCS in a young patient with pre-existing congenital cervical canal stenosis and acute hyperextension induced by a facial gunshot. The aetiology and management dilemmas are discussed.