Cervical spine distortion (CSD) injuries play a major role in car-to-car collisions worldwide. Potential for long-term impairment such as paraplegia and quadriplegia is always present with this type of injury. While research into vehicle safety is making progress, the incidence of cervical spine injuries is not falling, suggesting inadequacy in the design of car seat and restraint systems. The location of impact and position of occupants are also significant. Soft tissue neck injuries also contribute to prolonged medical problems with detrimental socioeconomic consequences. The injury mechanisms are described in detail, with statistical and illustrative data summarised in tables and figures. Areas for further knowledge include investigating further "whiplash" injury; the relationship between neck-bending movements and specific injury mechanisms; the effects of age and gender on neck injuries; impact location and occupants' positioning issues; and pain control and anaesthesia for neck injury victims.
Abstract