RISK AND MECHANISMS OF INJURIES TO THE CERVICAL SPINE IN TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

This paper presents the results of a field study in the Hannover area (Federal Republic of Germany). 5,759 people injured in traffic accidents were examined with regard to injuries of the cervical spine. 2.1% received injuries of the cervical spine; 1.04% morphologically non-definable injuries (AIS equals 1), and 0.97% bony or ligamentary injuries (AIS greater than 1). The definition of the "whiplash injury" is elucidated, and the risk for these particular injuries is described, according to the type of traffic participation of the injured. (Author/TRRL)