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Cervical Disc Displacement in Military Pilots
Patrick J Tansey1, Cory F Janney1,2, Daniel C Jupiter1,3
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-0165, USA.
Military Medicine
|February 9, 2024
Summary
Helicopter pilots face a higher risk of cervical disc displacement (CDD) than fixed-wing pilots. This career-threatening condition requires increased awareness and preventive measures for aviation personnel.
Area of Science:
- Aviation medicine
- Epidemiology
- Spine health
Background:
- Cervical disc displacement (CDD) can lead to pilot disqualification and impact military readiness.
- Understanding CDD incidence and risk factors in aviation is crucial for maintaining flight crew capability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of symptomatic cervical disc displacement (CDD) in U.S. military pilots.
- To identify demographic predictors of CDD in fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and ground-based personnel.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of the Defense Military Epidemiology Database (2007-2015).
- Analysis of ICD-9 code 722.0 for first-occurrence CDD cases.
- Calculation of incidence rates per 1,000 person-years, standardized for age, gender, and rank.
Main Results:
- 934 new CDD cases were identified among U.S. military pilots.
- Overall CDD incidence was 2.715 per 1,000 person-years.
- Helicopter pilots showed a significantly higher incidence (3.79 per 1,000 person-years) compared to fixed-wing pilots, even after standardization. Increasing age was a risk factor for CDD in officers.
Conclusions:
- U.S. military helicopter pilots have an elevated risk of CDD compared to fixed-wing pilots and non-pilot controls.
- CDD is a rare but potentially career-ending condition.
- Enhanced education, awareness, and investigation into preventive strategies are recommended for pilots and flight physicians.
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