THE EFFECT OF RIGID CERVICAL COLLAR ON INTERNAL JUGULAR VEIN DIMENSIONS: AN ULTRASOUND STUDY

Objectives: Rigid cervical collars are routinely used for spinal immobilization in trauma patients, particularly those with head injuries, to prevent further neurological damage. However, concerns exist that these collars might increase intracranial pressure (ICP), potentially exacerbating secondary brain injury. While the exact mechanism for this ICP rise is unclear, one proposed theory is obstruction of venous outflow from the neck. This study aimed to investigate the effect of rigid cervical collars on the dimensions of the internal jugular vein (IJV) using ultrasound, providing insight into the potential mechanism for increased ICP. Methods: Eighty healthy volunteers participated in a prospective observational study. Ultrasound was used to measure the cross-sectional area (CSA) of both the right and left internal jugular veins before and after the application of a rigid cervical collar. The measured areas were then compared.