Cervical spine injury: Approach to the trauma patient

Cervical spine injury can be found in an estimated 5% of blunt trauma patients and poses some specific concerns for the otolaryngologist. Understanding the mechanisms and nature of injuries are essential to manage and minimize secondary spinal cord injury, particularly during intubation, or emergent or planned airway or other surgical procedures. Providers should be able to identify patients with potential cervical spine injury, be familiar with alternative methods of airway management and neck stabilization and have an understanding of basic management of cervical spine injury.