Comparison of two new immobilization collars.

STUDY
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the limitation of movement of four cervical collars, with emphasis on two new extrication collars.
DESIGN: Ranges of motion permitted by four extrication collars, measured by two goniometric techniques, were compared. Times required to apply each collar were noted and compared.
SETTING: In a laboratory setting, volunteers were asked to flex, extend, laterally bend, and rotate their necks, first without restriction and then with each of the collars applied. TYPE OF PARTICIPANTS: Participants were healthy volunteers who worked either in the Department of Physical Therapy or in the Emergency Department of Tulane Medical Center Hospital.
INTERVENTIONS: The collars used were the Nec-Loc Extrication Collar, Philadelphia Collar, Philadelphia Red EM Collar with Immobilizer, and Vacuum Splint Cervical Collar. MEASUREMENTS: Measurements were performed first using the head goniometer and then the hand-held goniometer. Time required for application was measured in seconds. Statistical evaluation was performed using repeated measure analysis of variance and then Newman-Keuls multiple comparison procedure. MAIN
RESULTS: The Vacuum Splint Cervical Collar restricted range of motion of the cervical spine most effectively.
CONCLUSION: A cervical collar with design characteristics similar to the Vacuum Splint Cervical Collar (ie, a rigid collar that incorporates part of the thorax) will restrict movement of the neck more effectively than shorter, less rigid collars.