Imaging the Traumatised Cervical Spine - Rob Sneath 5/10/2002

Author

Streitwieser D.(California), Knopp R., Wales L., Williams J., et al

Title

Accuracy of standard radiographic views in detecting cervical spine fractures

Reference

Ann Emerg Med 12:9;538-542 Sept 1983

Summary

Study with 71 patients to see the sensitivity and specificity of cross table lateral views (sens 82%, spec 70%) and the standard X-Ray work up (a.p, lat and peg views) (sens 93%, spec 71%) using thin-section tomography as the definitive detector.

Take away message

If a cervical injury is suspected clinically and the X-Rays are normal further imaging is indicated as an unstable fracture could be missed.

Author

Kirshenbaum K. (Chicago), Nadimpalli S., Fantus R., and Cavallino R

Title

Unsuspected upper cervical spine fractures associated with significant head trauma: role of CT

Reference

J Emerg Med 8;183-198 Sep 1989

Summary

Prospective study of 50 patients admitted with significant head trauma having routine CT imaging (4mm slices) of C1-C2. Four cervical spine fractures noted on CT which were not seen on X-Ray, even with retrospective review

Critique

Prospective study with reasonable numbers. Clear conclusion.