General
c-spine
What does c-spine mean?
Refers to the seven cervical vertebrae; in the ED, 'clearing the C-spine' means confirming there is no neck fracture or instability after trauma.
"Get a CT to clear the C-spine on this rollover."
Origin
Abbreviation of 'cervical spine.'
Frequently asked questions
What is the C-spine?
It is the cervical spine, the seven vertebrae that make up the neck region of the backbone.
What does 'clearing the C-spine' mean?
It means confirming through exam and sometimes imaging that there is no neck fracture or instability after trauma, so the cervical collar can safely come off.
What does the C stand for?
It stands for cervical, the neck region of the spine.
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