Orthopaedic and neurosurgical proposed protocols for emergency referrals

The Following Should be directed to Neurosurgery:

• Suspected Cauda Equina syndrome (these cases are not to be admitted to T&O for MR).
• Cervical spine trauma.
• Acute back/leg pain with neurological deficit (though generally these cases are not admitted).
• Discitis with spinal cord injury.

The Following Should be directed to Trauma & Orthopaedics:

• Acute back pain requiring admission (though generally these cases are not to be admitted).
• Acute vertebral fractures (lumbar and thoracic).