Management of Cervical Spine Trauma in the Surgical Emergency Intensive Care Unit

Background: Cervical spine trauma represents a major public health issue because of its frequency, severity, and potentially devastating neurological consequences. Early diagnosis and appropriate prehospital and in-hospital management are essential to improve survival and functional outcomes.Methods: We conducted a retrospective study including 35 patients admitted for cervical spine trauma to the Surgical Emergency Intensive Care Unit of Ibn Rochd University Hospital between January 2023 and November 2025. Epidemiological, clinical, radiological, therapeutic, and outcome data were analyzed.Results: Road traffic accidents were the leading cause of injury, accounting for 52% of cases, followed by falls (31%). On admission, 74.3% of patients presented with life-threatening conditions. Hemodynamic instability and respiratory failure were observed in 62.86% and 57.14% of cases, respectively. Cervical computed tomography identified spinal lesions in 97.14% of patients, whereas magnetic resonance imaging was performed in 22.85% of cases and demonstrated spinal cord injury in all examined patients. The lower cervical spine was the most frequently affected region (57%). Surgical management was performed in 42.85% of patients, while 28.57% received conservative treatment. Adequate prehospital immobilization and medical transport were documented in only 5.71% of cases. Overall mortality reached 22.85%.Conclusion: Cervical spine trauma remains associated with high morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis, adequate prehospital immobilization, rapid transfer to specialized centers, and multidisciplinary management are essential to improve neurological and functional outcomes.