On 30/6, Dr. Tran Thi Bich Kim, Deputy Head of the Intensive Care and Anti-Poisoning Department at Children's Hospital 2, reported that the boy was admitted with progressive weakness in all four limbs following a cervical spine injury. He had previously fallen at home and received treatment at a provincial hospital. However, his limb weakness progressed, leading his family to transfer him to Ho Chi Minh City.

MRI results revealed severe damage: a cervical vertebra displaced backward, severely compressing the spinal cord in the neck. Doctors deemed this a dangerous condition, potentially affecting motor function, respiration, and even threatening the boy's life.

Facing this critical situation, intensive care, neurosurgery, and orthopedic doctors quickly consulted across specialties to devise a treatment plan. The boy underwent emergency surgery to decompress the spinal cord and stabilize the cervical spine.

Dr. Nguyen Thanh Do, Deputy Head of the Neurosurgery Department, described the surgery as particularly challenging. The upper cervical spine has a complex structure, directly connected to vital nerves controlling movement and respiration. Even minor deviations during surgery could cause severe complications.

Doctors at Children's Hospital 2 perform surgery on the patient. *Photo: Quynh Tran*

Following surgery, the boy's recovery remained challenging. For nearly two months, he received intensive care, combined with daily physical therapy and rehabilitation.

From near complete quadriplegia, his limb strength has significantly improved. The boy is gradually regaining motor function, offering hope for a return to normal life.

Dr. Kim warned that cervical spine injuries in children are dangerous, yet can stem from seemingly minor household accidents. If a child falls or sustains head and neck injuries, parents should avoid moving them in ways that could worsen the injury and seek immediate specialized medical attention.

Le Phuong