The spinal column sends and receives signals from the brain to and from the rest of the body. Damage can occur to these nerve roots in the spinal column that can result in temporary or permanent changes in feeling, movement, strength, and body functions.

The spinal cord gets blood from several sources, among them small arteries that come directly from the thoracic aorta. SCI can occur after interventions of the thoracic aorta because these small vessels are blocked by the replacement graft. This is known as Spinal Cord Injury or Ischemia.