Cervical neural space narrowing during simulated rear crashes with anti-whiplash systems

Eur Spine J, 2012 · DOI: 10.1007/s00586-012-2159-5 · Published: January 24, 2012

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how much the space around the nerves in the neck narrows during simulated car crashes. The researchers compared crashes with and without anti-whiplash systems like WHIPS (whiplash protection system) and AHR (active head restraint). The goal was to see if these systems reduce the risk of nerve compression that could lead to pain and other symptoms after a whiplash injury.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

12 fresh-frozen human osteoligamentous whole cervical spine specimens (occiput-T1)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The study found that the average peak narrowing of the spinal canal and intervertebral foramen was not statistically different between the WHIPS, AHR, and NHR conditions.
2
The peak narrowing observed with WHIPS or AHR reached 2.7 mm for canal diameter and 1.6 mm, 2.7 mm, and 5.9 mm2 for foraminal width, height and area, respectively.
3
The results suggest that while spinal cord compression is unlikely in individuals with normal canal diameters, there is potential for spinal ganglia and nerve root compression due to foraminal kinematics.

Research Summary

The study aimed to determine the neural space narrowing of the lower cervical spine during simulated rear crashes with whiplash protection systems (WHIPS and AHR) compared to no head restraint (NHR). The researchers used a human neck specimen within a BioRID II crash dummy and measured cervical canal and foraminal narrowing during simulated rear crashes. The study concluded that while cord compression is unlikely in those with normal canal diameters, the foraminal kinematics observed could compress spinal ganglia and nerve roots.

Practical Implications

Improved Anti-Whiplash Systems

Future anti-whiplash systems should be designed to further reduce cervical neural space narrowing to potentially decrease radicular symptoms in whiplash patients.

Risk Assessment in Stenosis

Individuals with cervical spinal canal stenosis may be at higher risk of nerve compression injuries during rear impacts, highlighting the need for personalized safety measures.

Clinical Relevance

The findings support the clinical observation of radicular symptoms in whiplash patients and suggest a biomechanical mechanism for these symptoms through nerve root and ganglion compression.

Study Limitations

1
The specimens used were from older individuals (average age 86 years), which may not accurately represent the response of younger adults more frequently involved in car crashes.
2
The canal and foraminal points were mathematically reconstructed, representing approximations rather than direct measurements of neural space narrowing.
3
The dynamic responses are dependent upon occupant size, weight, and crash severity, though these parameters were not varied.

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