A. Huber et al., WHIPLASH INJURY OF THE CERVICAL-SPINE FROM NEUROSURGICAL, TRAUMATOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL-ASPECTS, Neurochirurgia, 36(2), 1993, pp. 51-55
Since the early 50's, whiplash injury has been a subject of intensive
study in order to find out the genesis of this disease. Unfortunately,
most of the studies were planned retrospectively and were based on in
homogeneous groups of patients. In our prospective study, we tried to
keep the patient group homogeneous. 62 patients were examined neurolog
ically and radiologically immediately after the accident. Furthermore,
they underwent a psychological test, the so-called Freiburg personali
ty profile. 6 months later the patients were checked again. On the bas
is on our findings, the suspected psychological influence has to be co
nfirmed. Preexisting degenerative lesions of the cervical spine, also,
are undoubtedly prognostic for longer-lasting symptoms.