Can you see with CT? Is cervical spine computed tomographic imaging sufficient in pediatric trauma?

Background: Traumatic cervical spine injury (CSI) is fundamentally different in children, and imaging recommendations vary; however, prompt diagnosis is necessary.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study, evaluating children who presented after traumatic injury from 7/1/2012 to 12/31/2019 receiving a cervical spine CT. Evaluation of the incidence and clinical significance of CSI undetected on CT subsequently diagnosed on MRI was conducted. Additionally, all with CSI underwent image review to evaluate for potential overlooked, but visible pathology.

Results: 1487 children underwent a cervical spine CT, revealing 52 with CSI. 237 underwent MRI due to an abnormal CT or continued clinical concern. Ultimately, three were discovered to have clinically significant CSI missed on CT. In all cases, retrospective review demonstrated a retroclival hematoma when soft tissue windows were formatted in sagittal and coronal views.

Conclusions: A normal CT may be sufficient to rule-out clinically significant CSI. However, the presence of a retroclival hematoma must be evaluated.