1 An Clouded Future……

2 THE CASE Matthew Kerry was a promising athlete with a future in college football. He had been offered full scholarships to play for Michigan State University and the University of Notre Dame But one summer day on a Michigan lake, he made a split-second decision that thwarted a future. The 6- foot-2, 240-pound young man dove into three feet of water. Hit the bottom, head first.

3 When he hit the bottom he lacerated the right side of his head and neck and upper back. He indicated he had severe pain upon impact and loss of sensation and movement in his arm and leg. He may have lost consciousness, but he’s not sure. He also complains of a severe headache, dizziness, and nausea.

Vitals at the time of the Accident Slightly lowered blood pressure (100/70), heart rate of 75 beats per minute, respiration normal, and he was conscious and alert.” 4

5 CQ#1: Do you know of someone who has suffered a concussion or spinal cord injury? A. Yes B. No

Summary of Diagnostic Tests 6

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C7 Fracture…. 9

C7 – T2 Swelling 10

11 Is it spinal cord injury or a brain injury?

12 Based upon previous knowledge of brain function, what results from the testing were consistent with a brain injury? Based upon your knowledge of spinal cord function, what results from the testing were consistent with a spinal cord injury? Based upon previous knowledge of CNS function, what results could be consistent with both types of injury? Based upon the findings presented, which doctor made the correct initial prediction? Assuming the incorrect diagnosis true, predict how the findings would be different.