(Quadriplegia) Refers to impairment or loss of motor and/or sensory function in the cervical segments of the spinal cord due to damage of neural elements within the spinal canal. Tetraplegia results in impairment of function in the arms as well as in the trunk, legs, and pelvic organs. It does not include brachial plexus lesions or injury to peripheral nerves outside the neural canal.

refers to "impairment or loss of motor and/or sensory function in the cervical segments of the spinal cord due to damage of neural elements within the spinal canal". This term is etymologically more accurate than `Quadriplegia', combining tetra + plegia, both from Greek, rather than quadri + plegia, a Latin/Greek amalgam. It is generally preferred outside the US.

Also termed quadriplegia. Describes the complete or incomplete paralysis from the neck downwards, affecting all four limbs and the trunk. This is the result of damage to the spinal cord between C1 and C8.