Self-extraction with and without a cervical collar: a biomechanical simulation study.

OBJECTIVES: To compare self-extraction with and without a cervical collar in subjects at low risk of cervical spine injuries. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Simulation study analyzing biomechanical data from inertial sensors to detect misalignment of the cervical spine during self-extraction with and without a cervical collar. RESULTS: Misalignment was a mean (SD) 3.12 (34.62) degrees greater during self-extraction with a Stiffneck collar in place (95% CI, -15.33 to 21.57 degrees; P=.7234) than during extraction without a collar. Misalignment was also greater, by 5.95 (31.76) degrees, with an X-collar in place (95% CI, -10.98 to 22.87; P=.4654) than without a collar. The between-collar comparison of differences showed that misalignment was 2.83 (12.10) degrees greater with the X-collar (95% CI, -3.62 to 9.27 degrees; P=.3650). CONCLUSION: Misalignment of the cervical spinal column is similar during self-extraction with or without a cervical collar in place.