'Clearance' of cervical spine injury in the obtunded patient.
The need to exclude cervical spine injury ('clearance') in an obtunded patient poses a dilemma. The purpose of this study was to find out the current practices for tackling this situation around the country. A questionnaire was sent to all Intensive Care Units who accept injured patients. There is a great diversity in the management and investigation of these patients. There is clearly a need for a recognised protocol for dealing with this difficult situation. Such a protocol is suggested.
Lockey
A S
AS
Trauma Service, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.
Handley
R
R
Willett
K
K
D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries*; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003422:Critical Care / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital; D011859:Radiography; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014474:Unconsciousness / Q000150:complications*; D006113:United Kingdom