Abstract
Trauma continues to be the number one cause of death and disability in children. Though the incidence of cervical spine injury in younger children is small, undiagnosed cervical spine injuries can produce catastrophic neurological disability. Significant anatomic differences exist between the pediatric and adult cervical spine, and younger patients present a greater challenge. As the volume of pediatric trauma continues to exist, a more systematic approach to evaluation and treatment of suspected cervical spine injuries is needed. This report will review a multidisciplinary process that addresses an algorithm and clinical management guidelines for the care of a cervical spine injury in the pediatric patient.