Algorithm for Evaluating Cervical Spine After Trauma
The first plain film study for evaluation of the cervical spine in a patient after trauma is a lateral view in the cervical collar. All of the cervical vertebrae must be seen clearly. If the lower cervical vetebrae are not included on the film, a repeat lateral view with shoulder traction must be performed to clearly visualize the entire cervical vertebrae. If the C7 vertebra is not clearly seen, a repeat lateral view using other means such as Swimmer's view (if the patient can move the arm), or trauma oblique views must be obtained to clearly see the entire cervical vertebrae. Additional imaging depends on the clinical examination and plain film findings. If the clinical suspicion is high for cervical fracture or other injury or if the plain radiographs are abnormal or suspicious, obtain a CT for the best definition of the osseous architecture.
Contact the BrighamRAD Design Team for additional information about this site.
