[Medical Q&A] What can be done to prevent secondary injury after cervical spine injury?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Wang Changyuan, Chief Physician, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University

The cervical spine is a special part. Once a cervical spine injury occurs, if it is not treated correctly in the first place, it is easy to cause secondary injury. Once the injury is serious, it may even lead to paralysis or shock. For example, if someone falls on a trampoline and suffers unbearable neck pain, the person next to him will help the patient sit up or directly pick him up. These actions will cause secondary injury to the patient. What is the correct way to do it?

First, call 120 immediately to ensure that medical staff can arrive at the scene in the shortest possible time. Medical staff will quickly assess the patient's injuries and take accurate rescue measures to prevent the injury or illness from worsening, thereby alleviating the patient's pain.

But what should we do if the incident happens suddenly, conditions are limited, and we cannot contact the emergency center?

First, the patient's condition should be observed and the injuries assessed, including whether the patient is conscious, breathing smoothly, whether the limbs can move normally, and the location of the pain.

Second, limit the movement of the patient's head and neck. If conditions permit, a neck brace can be placed to fix the patient's head, shoulders and neck together to avoid further injury and damage to the cervical spinal cord. Once the cervical spinal cord is injured, spinal shock may occur. It should be noted that if the patient has a puncture wound in the neck, a neck brace is not recommended. Sandbags or clothing can be placed on both sides of the patient's neck to maintain cervical stability.

Third, use a stretcher, wooden board or door panel to carry the patient. First, straighten the patient's lower limbs and hold the patient's hands in front of the body. Put the stretcher on the patient's side, and three people lift the patient's head, neck, trunk and lower limbs with their hands at the same time, so that the patient can be placed on the stretcher in a straight and whole body. Be careful not to twist the patient's trunk, and be especially careful not to carry the patient in a flexed position.

Fourth, send the patient to the nearest hospital for treatment in a timely manner and inform the doctor of the patient’s specific injuries.