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Emergency immobilizers designed for maximum restriction of movements and/or total immobilization of the head and the cervical vertebrae. These immobilizers usually consist of rigid structures (e.g., short boards) that permit the attachment of the head and the proximal (i.e., cervical) section of the spine. The board is frequently made of light metallic or hard plastic radiolucent materials. Head/cervical spine immobilizers are frequently attached to whole body immobilizers (i.e., long backboards) and/or stretchers, to provide additional restriction of the body movement. They are mainly used after traumatic injuries, and facilitate safer and easier transportation and/or diagnosis including radiographic procedures. Extrication collars, mainly intended for use after vehicle accidents, are also available. Dedicated head/spine immobilizers intended for adult, pediatric, and infant use are available.
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