Which statement is true regarding spinal cord injury in children compared to adults?

The statement that children suffer spinal cord injury without x-ray abnormality more commonly than adults is accurate. This difference can be attributed to the unique characteristics of pediatric anatomy and physiology. In children, the ligaments and spinal structures are more flexible and compliant, which can allow for significant spinal cord injury to occur without causing accompanying visible structural damage on x-ray images.

This phenomenon, often termed "spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality" (SCIWORA), is more prevalent in children due to their still-developing skeletal systems. Their spinal cords can be injured due to mechanisms such as hyperextension or flexion, and the lack of visible abnormalities can sometimes lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment, which is crucial for preventing long-term complications.

In contrast, adults typically present with more straightforward x-ray findings in cases of spinal cord injury, making the diagnosis easier to ascertain. The variations in biomechanics and developmental stages between children and adults contribute significantly to the differences observed in spinal cord injury patterns.