Can a patient with a spinal cord injury at C7 experience respiratory arrest?

A patient with a spinal cord injury at the C7 vertebra can indeed experience respiratory arrest. The spinal cord controls the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, which are essential for normal breathing. The phrenic nerve, which innervates the diaphragm, originates from the cervical spine, particularly from C3 to C5. Injuries at or above C4 can significantly impair the respiratory function because they can affect the ability to control the diaphragm.

While an injury at C7 does not completely sever the connection to the diaphragm, it can still lead to decreased respiratory effectiveness due to compromised muscle control. The upper respiratory muscles, which are also influenced by the cervical spine, may not function optimally, leading to potential respiratory complications, including respiratory arrest in severe cases. Therefore, while a C7 injury does not guarantee immediate respiratory failure, it does pose a significant risk, highlighting the importance of monitoring such patients closely for respiratory function.