ABSTRACT
The subject of cervical spine imaging for trauma patients has generated significant
controversy over the past decade and a half. This review considers three aspects of
this controversy. The first examines the indications for cervical imaging, focusing
on the factors that determine whether trauma patients are at high or low risk for
cervical injury. The second discusses the uses of radiography and computed tomography
as the main screening diagnostic examination. In addition to the roles of each modality
in this evaluation process, other factors such as efficacy of diagnosis, time requirements
for study, and cost will be discussed. The final section explores the methods currently
used to “clear” the cervical spine in comatose patients.
KEYWORDS
Cervical spine - trauma - imaging indications - radiography indications - efficacy
- cost - computed tomography - indications - dose
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Richard DaffnerM.D.
Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Allegheny General Hospital
320 East North Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15212-4772
