Citation

Langer PR, Fadale PD, Palumbo MA. Sports Med. Arthrosc. 2008; 16(1): 7-15.

Affiliation

Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Brown Medical School/Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI 02905, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Raven Press)

DOI

10.1097/JSA.0b013e318163be37

PMID

18277257

Abstract

Catastrophic neck injury is defined as a structural distortion of the cervical spinal column associated with actual (or potential) damage to the spinal cord. Although uncommon, this type of traumatic injury can lead to severe neurologic sequelae in the collision sport athlete. Emergency care is complicated by the helmet and shoulder pads worn by the athlete. A thorough understanding of the clinical anatomy, diagnostic considerations, and protocols for on-site evaluation and management is necessary to optimize outcome.

Language: en