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[Head injuries in children--clinical characteristics as prognostic factors]
G Paret1, R Ben Abraham, S Berman
1Dept. of Pediatric Intensive Care, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer.
Insights
This study on pediatric head trauma found that clinical assessment and cranial CT scans are crucial for predicting outcomes. Early identification of factors like Glasgow Coma Score and brain edema aids in providing better patient support.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Traumatology
- Neurocritical Care
- Clinical Outcomes Research
Abstract:
An unselected series of 200 consecutive cases of major head trauma in children aged 6 months to 16 years, seen during 4 years, was studied. Injuries were due to road accidents (40%), falls (30.5%) and other causes (29.5%), and were assessed clinically and by cranial CT. On admission the Glasgow Coma Score ranged from 4.72-11.65 and in addition to pupillary responses and brain stem reflexes, was a significant predictor of outcome. Brain edema, midline shift, intracranial hemorrhage and also hyperglycemia, hypokalemia and coagulopathy, were associated with poor outcome. While 17% died, 53% were discharged in good functional condition. Early identification of clinical features related to prognosis can help the caring team provide maximal support for patient and family.