Effects of spinal immobilization devices on pulmonary function in healthy volunteer individuals

BACKGROUND We aimed to investigate the effects of spinal immobilization devices on pulmonary functions. METHODS This study was a cross-over trial in healthy volunteer subjects; 60 volunteers were included. We performed a full spirometry in the supine position, and forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and FEV1/FVC were recorded in all subjects. Then, Philadelphia type cervical collar (Philly) and Kendrick extrication device (KED) were applied to all subjects. We measured FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC in all subjects in the supine position at the 5th and 30th minutes after application of cervical collar and KED. After a one-hour relaxation period, Philly and long spinal backboard with straps were applied to all subjects. FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC were measured again in all subjects at the 5th and 30th minutes after application of cervical collar and long spinal backboard. RESULTS After application of KED, baseline levels were compared with levels at the 5th and 30th minutes. Statistically significant decreases were determined in FEV1 (p = 0.000) and FVC levels (p = 0.000) after application of KED, but there were no significant differences in FEV1/FVC levels. After application of the long spinal backboard, a comparison of baseline levels and levels at the 5th and 30th minutes demonstrated statistically significant decreases in FEV1 (p = 0.000) and FVC levels (p = 0.000), but no significant difference in FEV1/FVC levels. CONCLUSION We determined that both KED and long spinal backboard cause a decrease in pulmonary functions.