Question

What level SCI would result in loss of partial diaphragm innervation? a) SCI at the cervical level

b) SCI at the thoracic level
c) SCI at the lumbar level
d) SCI at the sacral level

Answer 1

A spinal cord injury at the cervical level would result in the loss of partial diaphragm innervation, specifically at cervical levels 3 to 5 where the phrenic nerve connects.

Step-by-step explanation:

The spinal cord injury (SCI) that would result in the loss of partial diaphragm innervation is SCI at the cervical level. The phrenic nerve, which is responsible for the motor fibers that control the muscle contractions necessary for ventilation, connects to the spinal cord at cervical levels 3 to 5. Damage to the spinal cord below this level would not be immediately fatal to respiration, but damage at or above this level can affect the diaphragm's function, potentially leading to partial or complete respiratory failure. It's important to note that the innervation of the diaphragm is critical for breathing, as these motor fibers are essential for the contractions that make up our breathing mechanism.