Evaluation of spine boards for X-ray diagnostics.

Purpose: Spine boards are frequently used in preclinical emergency care. Di fferent models were examined with regard to their feasibility for plain fil m radiography and computed tomography (CT). Methods: Five current spine boa rd models were measured for their dimensions and weight. Transmission of ra diation [mu Gyls] and dose area product [cGy x cm(2)] were determined with a patient equivalent aluminium phantom. Image artifacts, image quality and resolution of anatomic details were evaluated with an anthropomorphic Alder son phantom. Results: With only 6.3 kg new models show a 28% reduction in w eight, three spine boards generate lateral artifacts due to a narrow width of 41-42 cm. Radiation transmission of all boards was similar, however dose area products differed by up to 59%. Image quality \was impaired in 4 out of 5 boards because of image artifacts, CT scanning was not impaired with a ll boards. Conclusion: Only one board (Ferno Millenia(R)) showed sufficient properties for plain film radiography and CT. There is no suitable spine b oard for preclinical and clinical applications as well as for trauma radiol ogy, further improvements of current designs are essential.