title: Basic principles of management for cervical spine trauma.
abstract: This article reviews the basic principles of management of cervical trauma. The technique and critical importance of careful assessment is described. Instability is defined, and the incidence of a second injury is highlighted. The concept of spinal clearance is discussed. Early reduction and stabilisation techniques are described, and the indications, and approach for surgery reviewed. The importance of the role of post-injury rehabilitation is identified.
authors.affiliation: The RealHealth Institute, 23-31 Beavor Lane, London, W6 9AR, UK. johnodowd@btinternet.com
authors.forename: J K
authors.initials: JK
authors.lastname: O'Dowd
mesh_terms: D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries* / Q000473:pathology; D002985:Clinical Protocols / Q000592:standards; D003952:Diagnostic Imaging / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D019635:Neurosurgical Procedures / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D011859:Radiography; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D013124:Spinal Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D014143:Traction / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D015599:Trauma Severity Indices
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