Table 1 Overview of key clinical questions in the PICO format
Clinical question | P | I | C | O |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Does routine use of spinal stabilisation prevent secondary neurological injury? | Trauma population | Spinal stabilisation | Stabilisation vs no stabilisation | Neurological morbidity |
Are there alternative ways of stabilising the spinal column? | Trauma population | Spinal stabilisation | collar/MILS/stretcher/backboard | Neurological morbidity Pain/discomfort |
Is there evidence of harmful side effects caused by stabilisation devices? | Trauma population | Spinal stabilisation | Stabilisation vs no stabilisation | Neurological morbidity Pain, discomfort, ulceration |
Are there sub-groups of patients that in particular should not be stabilised? | Critical injuries Minor injuries | No spinal stabilisation | Stabilisation vs no stabilisation | Neurological morbidity & mortality |
How should patients with potential spinal injury be evacuated and transported? | Trauma population | Extrication & transport | Stretcher, vacuum mattress, backboard | Neurological morbidity & mortality Pain, discomfort, ulceration |