neck injury

Last reviewed 10/2022

After major trauma the cervical spine should be immobilised. After resuscitation all 7 cervical vertebrae should be visualised, including the C7-T1 junction on a lateral radiograph. Unless cervical injury is excluded the neck should be kept immobilised. As appropriate the neck and more distal neurology should be examined.

Injury to the thoracic and lumbar spine are dealt with elsewhere.