A 19-year-old hockey player presents after a high-speed collision into the boards. He is alert, has midline neck pain, paresthesia in both hands, and

Question

A 19-year-old hockey player presents after a high-speed collision into the boards. He is alert, has midline neck pain, paresthesia in both hands, and normal limb strength. HR is 88 and BP is 124/76. He is immobilised. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Obtain CT cervical spine and maintain spinal precautions pending specialist review

Answer

Order flexion-extension radiographs in triage

Answer

Clear the cervical spine clinically because strength is normal

Answer

Give oral analgesia and discharge with a soft collar

Answer

Remove immobilisation after a normal lateral neck X-ray

Cervical spine injury risk after sports trauma — RCPSC EM MCQ

A 19-year-old hockey player presents after a high-speed collision into the boards. He is alert, has midline neck pain, paresthesia in both hands, and normal limb strength. HR is 88 and BP is 124/76. He is immobilised. What is the most appropriate next step?