A Retrospective Look at a Cervical Spine Clearance Protocol in Pediatric Trauma Patients at a Level-1 Trauma Center

Conclusion: Documented cervical spine clearance protocols are effective for detection of significant injury in pediatric trauma patients. This study suggests these protocols minimize risk of missed injury and may prevent unnecessary radiation exposure, delayed clearance, prolonged hospitalization, or unnecessary specialist referral. Clinical Relevance: Utilization of a standard written protocol for cervical spine clearance likely prevents missed injury and helps to minimize radiation exposure in pediatric populations. Further research is needed on evaluation and management of pediatric cervical spine trauma.
Source: Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics - Category: Orthopaedics Tags: Trauma Source Type: research