Needs Statement

Jugular vein compression: A tight spot for traditional collars

The Problem

Every year, 869,000 people suffer from neck injuries and are prescribed cervical collars. However, emergency and critical care doctors have noticed one big problem with all of the collars on the market: when worn tightly, they constrict the sides of the neck resulting in jugular vein compression. The backflow of blood to the skull swells in volume leading to a surge in intracranial pressure (ICP). Even the smallest rise in ICP pushes against the brain tissue, spurring severe neurological damage and even death. Since non-neurological specialists are unfamiliar with the traditional cervical collar’s compressive nature, they authorize side effects inducing drugs to patients. This not only unnecessarily lengthens their stay at healthcare facilities but also increases morbidity rates.

Jugular Vein Compression

All current cervical collars compress tightly on the jugular veins leading to:

  • Backflow of blood in the skull
  • Increased intracranial pressure
  • Damaged neurological tissue
  • Brain death

    • Neck Stabilization

    There are 6 neck movements to limit:

  • Flexion / Extension
  • Left / Right Lateral Flexion
  • Left / Right Rotation