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Pediatric cervical spine injury: emergency department management

Andrew Dixon1, C Jenner Lakusta2

  • 1Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Pediatric Emergency Medicine Practice
|June 17, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric cervical spine injuries are rare but serious. This review provides evidence-based guidance for emergency clinicians on recognizing high-risk signs and managing these critical injuries in children.

Area of Science:

  • Emergency Medicine
  • Pediatric Traumatology
  • Spinal Cord Injury Research

Background:

  • Pediatric cervical spine injuries, though uncommon, carry significant morbidity and mortality risks.
  • Accurate diagnosis and timely management are crucial to prevent secondary injury.
  • Age-specific physiological considerations are vital for effective clinical decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To synthesize current evidence for managing pediatric cervical spine injuries.
  • To provide actionable recommendations for prehospital and emergency department care.
  • To guide clinicians in identifying high-risk injury patterns and mechanisms.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of pediatric cervical spine injury management.
  • Evidence synthesis focusing on prehospital care, imaging, and emergency department protocols.
  • Development of age-stratified, physiology-informed recommendations.

Main Results:

  • Identification of key high-risk signs and mechanisms specific to pediatric populations.
  • Evidence-based guidelines for appropriate imaging utilization to minimize radiation exposure.
  • Recommendations for standardized emergency department management pathways.

Conclusions:

  • Early recognition of high-risk indicators is paramount for pediatric cervical spine injuries.
  • A structured, age-appropriate approach optimizes patient outcomes.
  • Implementing these evidence-based recommendations can improve the care of critically injured children.

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