Short Answer 
The response details the implications of a T12 spinal cord injury, emphasizing the occurrence of spinal shock characterized by loss of reflexes and movement. It also explains sensory deficits resulting from a thoracic hemisection, specifically noting ipsilateral loss of touch and contralateral loss of pain, and how these symptoms aid in assessing injury types and planning rehabilitation.
Step 1: Understand Spinal Shock
After a T12 spinal cord injury, the most common indicator of spinal shock is a significant loss of reflexes. This state occurs shortly after the injury and causes a temporary loss of movement, sensation, and reflex functions below the injury site. Key signs include:
- Reduction or absence of muscle reflexes.
- Overall weakness in affected areas.
- Potential for progressive recovery as spinal shock resolves.
Step 2: Recognize Sensory Deficits in Hemisection
A thoracic spinal cord hemisection leads to distinct sensory losses, particularly if the injury occurs in the T12 region. In this condition, sensory pathways are disrupted, causing an asymmetrical loss of functions. Patients are likely to experience:
- Ipsilateral loss of touch sensation on the same side of the injury.
- Contralateral loss of pain sensation on the opposite side.
- This phenomenon is also referred to as Brown-Séquard syndrome.
Step 3: Link Symptoms to Specific Injuries
In a scenario where a patient loses the ability to move their right leg after an accident, it’s crucial to connect the symptoms to the injury type. A thoracic spinal cord injury at T12 indicates specific patterns of sensory and motor deficits. The expected results are:
- Inability to process touch on the right side.
- Loss of pain sensation on the left side.
- Understanding these links helps in assessing damage and planning rehabilitation.