Efficacy of Cervical Immobilization in Multiple Trauma Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Immobilization is one of the most used procedures to prevent spinal cord injury in multiple trauma patients in prehospital setting. However, its protocolary use has historical principles rather than a scientific origin. Although this technique restricts the movement of the injured spine, there is no evidence supporting its use in all patients suffering from trauma. Objective: To contrast the effectiveness of immobilization in multiple trauma patients. Methodology: A bibliographic narrative review was carried out in databases such as PubMed, CINAHL Complete, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Plus and LILACS. Results: A total of 12 articles were obtained that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria established and answered the proposed objective. Discussion: The current literature does not clarify universal criteria about when patients should be immobilized. In addition, the great amount of harmful effects that can cause this technique to the patient are increasingly manifested. Conclusions: It is necessary to carry out more studies that provide scientific evidence of quality to know the effectiveness of cervical immobilization in multiple trauma patients, because this is still something uncertain.