Cervical Spine Physical Exam vs X-Rays vs CT Scan – 32nd Annual EM & Acute Care Course

Explore the critical aspects of cervical spine evaluation in emergency care through this 29-minute conference talk from the 32nd Annual EM & Acute Care Course. Delve into the comparison of physical exams, X-rays, and CT scans for cervical spine assessment. Learn about radiation exposure, patient selection criteria, and time considerations for different diagnostic methods. Examine the efficiency of plain films versus CT scans in detecting fractures and other abnormalities. Analyze real debates and case studies to enhance decision-making skills in emergency situations. Gain insights into changing clinical behaviors and optimizing diagnostic approaches for improved patient outcomes. Synthesize evidence-based recommendations from the Emergency Medical Abstracts database and expert faculty experiences to refine your approach to cervical spine evaluation in acute care settings.

Intro
Radiation
Who is it
Step off
Time interval
Movement time
Cost
Opportunity Cost
Real Debates
Flexion Extension
Inadequate Films
Another View of the Duck
Missed Fractures
Change Behavior
Efficiency of Plain Films
CT Scan Results
Fractures
CT in Plain Films
Spiral CT
Time Cost Evaluation
Journal of Trauma
Decision Making