@article { , title = {The 'Necksafe' head articulation control system: A novel cervical immobilisation device}, abstract = {Introduction: The early application of a semirigid disposable cervical collar following trauma is considered a routine practice. The aim of these devices is to immobilise the cervical spine and minimise the risk of additional neurological damage. However, these collars provide only partial immobilisation, are uncomfortable and are associated with a number of complications. Our team designed and tested a novel cervical immobilisation device that aims to improve immobilisation with reduced complications: the 'Necksafe'. Methods: Human volunteers were recruited and consented to test the novel Necksafe device in comparison with a conventional collar (the AMBU Perfit ACE) in a range of evaluations. These included assessments of the cervical range of movement (CROM) that occurred during scripted movements of the head and neck, and the effect of the new and conventional devices on jugular vein dimensions, assessed using ultrasound scanning. Results: CROM analysis showed that, under standardised testing conditions, the Necksafe device offers cervical immobilisation that is at least equivalent to a conventional collar, and is superior in the planes of extension, lateral flexion and rotation. Ultrasound examination of the jugular veins was inconclusive and did not reveal any differences in jugular venous diameter or flow. Qualitative feedback from ambulance paramedics was highly supportive of the new design, suggesting that it is more comfortable, easier to fit, less confining and better tolerated than a conventional collar, with improved immobilisation effectiveness. Conclusions: The results of quantitative and qualitative testing are highly supportive of the new Necksafe design, with improved cervical immobilisation, comfort and access to the airway.}, doi = {10.1136/emermed-2013-203527}, eissn = {1472-0213}, issn = {1472-0205}, issue = {7}, journal = {Emergency Medicine Journal}, pages = {564-570}, publicationstatus = {Published}, publisher = {BMJ Publishing Group}, url = {https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/832204}, volume = {32}, keyword = {Centre for Health and Clinical Research, necksafe, head articulation, control system, cervical immobilization device}, year = {2015}, author = {Sparke, Alison and Torlei, Karina and Voss, Sarah and Page, Mike and Benger, Jonathan and Matthews, Ed and Hillman, Michael and Hart, Darren and McLaughlin, Ella and Carter, Jane and Harris, Nigel} }