Reviews
Vol. 21 No. 4 (2025)
https://doi.org/10.4081/ecj.2025.14088
Prehospital spinal and cervical motor restriction in adult trauma patients: a narrative review
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All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.
All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.
Received: 26 June 2025
Accepted: 4 August 2025
Published: 22 September 2025
Accepted: 4 August 2025
Published: 22 September 2025
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The prehospital motor restriction of the cervical and spinal column in trauma patients remains a highly debated topic, with significant variability in clinical practice. With the present study, we aimed to conduct a narrative review of the literature on cervical and spinal motor restriction in prehospital settings, identifying devices used, clinical decision-making tools, and potential complications. A structured search was conducted in four databases (PubMed, ProQuest, CINAHL, Web of Science), including studies on adult trauma patients (≥16 years) with suspected spinal injury in prehospital settings. Screening was performed using Rayyan QCRI, and methodological quality was assessed via the Kmet checklist. A total of 28 studies were included. Evidence highlights that immobilization should not be applied routinely but guided by clinical risk and context. The use of validated protocols, selective motor restriction, and alternative devices (e.g., vacuum mattresses, self-extrication) may improve outcomes and reduce complications. High-fidelity simulation training and clinical audits are recommended to enhance decision-making and protocol adherence in spinal trauma management.
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Prehospital spinal and cervical motor restriction in adult trauma patients: a narrative review. (2025). Emergency Care Journal, 21(4). https://doi.org/10.4081/ecj.2025.14088
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