Samenvatting
A database was established collecting 919 cases of claimed cervical spine disorders (CSD) sustained in automotive accidents. All cases had a sick leave time of more than four weeks. Data was obtained from a major Swiss accident insurer. An assessment scheme was developed that takes into account technical, medical, and biomechanical aspects. All cases were evaluated according to this scheme. It was found that a history of neck injury in terms of pre-existing damage or pre-existing signs and symptoms has a significant influence on the overall assessment. 52% of the cases assessed would have been judged differently without considering the patient's medical history. For the covering abstract see ITRD E121180.