Back trauma in children

The Minimum information for referrals to non-admitted specialist services lists the information that should be included in a referral request.

Full SRC reference

Red flags

Indicate urgent (Category 1) referral or emergency assessment.

Acute spinal trauma

Clinical signs of spinal nerve root or spinal cord compression associated with rapidly progressive neurological signs or symptoms or suspected cauda equina syndrome

If the child is unable to ambulate or move the spine

New diagnosis of spinal tumour with neurological deficits

Recent spinal trauma or fracture associated with neurological deficits

Suspected spinal infection (e.g. child is unwell, listless, flushed, anorexic or is febrile)