Imaging of the Cervical Spine > Introduction > Importance of Prompt Diagnosis

Importance of Prompt Diagnosis

The consequences resulting from neck injuries range from simple neck pain, to quadriplegia, or even death. The spinal cord injury occurs at the time of trauma in 85% of patients and as a late complication in 15%. The initial postinjury period is critical with regard to neurologic recovery or deterioration. Delayed recognition of an injury or improper stabilization of the cervical spine may lead to irreversible spinal cord injury and permanent neurologic damage