Canadian C-Spine Rule
Indication for posttraumatic C-spine radiography
Step 1: Any high-risk factor that mandates radiography?
- Age >= 65yr
- Dangerous mechanism
- Paraesthesias in extremities
Step 2: Any low-risk factor that allows safe assessment of range of motion?
- Simple rear-end motor vehicle collision
- Sitting position in emergency department
- Ambulatory at any time
- Delayed (not immediate) onset of neck pain
- Absence of midline C-spine tenderness
Step 3: Able to rotate neck actively?
- 45 degrees left and right
Reference
Stiell et al. The Canadian C-spine rule versus the NEXUS low-risk criteria in patients with trauma. N Engl J Med (2003) vol. 349 (26) pp. 2510-8Supported by:
