Deriving its name from the two Velcro straps that cross under the chin, the XCollar and NeXsplint (the folding compact version) offers 24 vertical positions along with bilateral adjustability. One device custom fits individuals ranging from pediatrics weighing approximately 30 lb (13kg) to large adults weighing approximately 350 lb (160kg). The functionality of the device is directly linked to its unique, adjustable design. The ability to properly immobilize each patient is achieved by securing the patient in both the posterior (from the occipital to down past the C-7 vertebrae between the shoulder blades) and the anterior (from the jaw to the sternum).

          Because reduced mobility prevents post-traumatic secondary cervical and brain injuries, a “Cervical Splint” that provides increased immobilization will result in a significant improvement in patient treatment and outcome. The XCollar/NeXsplint is designed according to the basic concept of splinting, as opposed to traditional cervical “collars” that wrap around the neck and have limited adjustability. This fundamental flaw is addressed by the XCollar/NeXsplint with the ability to symmetrically fit a wide size-range of patients. The desired cervical stability that the device provides is achieved by splinting the cervical spine above C-1 and below C-7. 

          The XCollar/NeXsplint provides a significant reduction in all planes of motion (axial rotation, flexion extension, and lateral flexion). The reduction in movement of the head and cervical spine during treatment and transport will lead directly to a reduction in morbidity (paralysis, pain, loss of sensory function, etc.) and possibly mortality. The designed novel capability of the XCollar/NeXsplint to immobilize the patient’s head in the position found at the scene of the accident (deviated from forward midline) is an innovative capability that will reduce secondary injury and that is not found in other collars.

          In addition to directly improving patient care, the XCollar/NeXsplint gives new capabilities to rescue crews by offering an elegant solution to inefficiencies present in current c-spine procedures. The improved efficacy of this technology is such that less equipment (backboards, head restraints, straps) is required to achieve a safe level of immobilization. In multiple casualty situations the XCollar/NeXsplint cervical immobilization system can effectively liberate a first responder from the obligation of holding manual cervical immobilization. Furthermore, NeXsplint (the compact folding version) was custom designed for tactical or military applications requiring the least amount of storage space, but offers all of the benefits of the original XCollar design.