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Title: Can we stop imagining to clear C-Spines in older trauma patients?

Category: Trauma

Keywords: Cervical sound, age, geriatric, trauma, clearance (PubMed Search)

Posted: 2/1/2025 by Robert Flint, MD

Not based on currently available literature. 
This editorial reminds us that the only evidenced based screening criteria we have for C-spine clearance in those over age 65 after trauma is the Canadian C-Spine Rule (2002). This rule recommends imaging for all patients over age 65.   No large, well done study  indicates physical exam or other means can be used to clear C-Spines in those over age 65.

References

Rodriguez R, Greenberg S. Is older age an appropriate criterion alone for ordering cervical spine CT after trauma. Acad Emerg Med. 2024; 00: 1-2. doi:10.1111/acem.15001