Management of the spine in the polytrauma victim

Abstract

Major trauma is a common occurrence globally and a leading cause of death in younger patients. Its definition and epidemiology is described in depth elsewhere in the symposium. In the UK there are approximately 22,000 cases presenting per year. Overall management strategy dictates that major trauma is directed to centres experienced in its management. It is, however, important that all clinicians recognize and are aware of it, with implications for resource utilization. The spine can be injured through a variety of mechanisms but importantly in major trauma it is unusual for the spine to be injured in isolation, unless a direct impact is sustained. Conversely, it is critical to be aware of the possibility of vertebral and spinal cord injury which may be masked by distracting injury. Strategies and guidelines for the management of the spine in major trauma will be discussed, and some case examples will be shown in order to demonstrate key concepts and pitfalls.