Comparison of the Ferno Scoop Stretcher with the long backboard for spinal immobilization.
OBJECTIVE
Spinal immobilization is essential in reducing risk of further spinal injuries in trauma patients. The authors compared the traditional long backboard (LBB) with the Ferno Scoop Stretcher (FSS) (Model 65-EXL). They hypothesized no difference in movement during application and immobilization between the FSS and the LBB.


METHODS
Thirty-one adult subjects had electromagnetic sensors secured over the nasion (forehead) and the C3 and T12 spinous processes and were placed in a rigid cervical collar, with movement recorded by a goniometer (a motion analysis system). Subjects were tested on both the FSS and the LBB. The sagittal flexion, lateral flexion, and axial rotation were recorded during each of four phases: 1) baseline, 2) application (logroll onto the LBB or placement of the FSS around the patient), 3) secured logroll, and 4) lifting. Comfort and perceived security also were assessed on a visual analog scale.


RESULTS
There was approximately 6-8 degrees greater motion in the sagittal, lateral, and axial planes during the application of the LBB compared with the FSS (both p < 0.001). No difference was found during a secured logroll maneuver. The FSS induced more sagittal flexion during the lift than the LBB (p < 0.001). The FSS demonstrated superior comfort and perceived security.


CONCLUSIONS
The FSS caused significantly less movement on application and increased comfort levels. Decreased movement using the FSS may reduce the risk of further spinal cord injury.
Krell
Julie M
JM
Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. Julie.Krell@hotmail.com
McCoy
Matthew S
MS
Sparto
Patrick J
PJ
Fisher
Gretchen L
GL
Stoy
Walt A
WA
Hostler
David P
DP
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000379:methods; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007103:Immobilization / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D013124:Spinal Injuries / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome