deficit, neck pain, substantial torso injury, high-risk motor vehicle collision, and diving When a child’s cervical spine cannot be reliably evaluated clinically, imaging is usually the next step Radiographic options for evaluating the cervical spine include plain films, CT, and MRI The plain radiograph remains the preferred initial test for patients with acute trauma The American College of Radiology recommends a three-view series (lateral, anteroposterior [AP], and open-mouth) for initial screening in children