Context

Spinal column fractures are common in trauma and may be present in up to 10% of all trauma admissions. [1] 2 large multi-centre studies conducted by NEXUS and Canadian Cervical Spine [2,3] relayed that cervical spine fractures are present in 2% of all patients presenting with traumatic neck pain.

Because spinal column fractures are associated with significant mortality and morbidity, it is essential that Emergency Physicians feel confident in requesting and interpreting spinal imaging correctly.