Helical CT of cervical spine and soft tissue injuries of the neck

Helical CT of the neck has revolutionized the diagnostic evaluation of trauma and emergency room patients. This comprehensive examination, with high resolution and fast acquisition times, allows the radiologist to make expeditious diagnoses concerning cervical spine fractures, vascular injuries, and aero-digestive tract lesions. This allows for the more rapid triaging and treatment of various injuries resulting in improved patient care. Further prospective studies are needed to determine the most appropriate radiographic examination for each clinical scenario.