Systematic Interpretation of the Spinal Radiograph

Authors: Bruce W Martin, John P Sloan / Editor: Yasmin Sultan / Reviewer: Grace McKay, Jolene Rosario / Code: T1 / Published: 18/02/2022

Traumatic neck and back pain are common presentations to the emergency department (ED). A systematic approach to the interpretation of the spinal radiograph can help to identify potentially devastating though fortunately uncommon serious injuries.

Before commencing this session you should:

• Revise the anatomy of the bony spinal column
• Revise the functional anatomy of the spinal cord

After completing this session you will be able to:

• Define the key emergency medicine indications for spine radiography
• Apply a systematic approach to the interpretation of spinal x-rays using the ABCD system
• Appraise subtle changes and interpret these within context
• Relate radiographic findings to clinical presentation

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