The importance of mechanism in penetrating spinal injuries - A comparative study between gunshot wounds versus stab wounds to the spine managed at a major trauma centre in South Africa

Abstract

GSWs and SWs of the spine are distinct entities. GSWs are more likely to have severe systemic illness from concurrent organ injuries compared to SWs. In contrast, SWs are more likely to be incomplete cord injuries and carry a much better prognosis for neurological improvement/ambulation. The indications for surgery must be individualised.