Cervical spine clearance in obtunded patients after severe polytrauma.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To provide clinicians with data supporting three different clearance techniques in the obtunded patients after severe polytrauma. METHODS: This study gave an overview of the available and pertinent literature regarding cervical spine clearance in obtunded patients after severe polytrauma. RESULTS: Currently, there were three accepted techniques for clearance of the cervical spine in obtunded patients after severe polytrauma. Each of these methods has advantages and disadvantages to both of the patients and the clinicians. CONCLUSIONS: There are continuous improvements in both computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques that increase their sensitivities. The continued use of plain radiographs is called into question with respect to cost and time requirements. An algorithmic approach to the evaluation of the cervical spine in the obtunded patients will lead to fewer missed injuries.