The epidemiology of pediatric traumatic brain injury in Minnesota

S R Reid1, J S Roesler, A M Gaichas

  • 1Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospitals and Clinics, 345 N Smith Ave, St Paul, MN 55102, USA. krinandsam@aol.com

Insights

Pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) incidence is lowest reported, but severe injuries disproportionately affect non-metropolitan children, leading to worse outcomes. This study highlights disparities in pediatric TBI care.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Traumatology
  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) poses a significant public health challenge.
  • Understanding the epidemiology of pediatric TBI is crucial for targeted prevention and intervention strategies.
  • Disparities in TBI outcomes between urban and rural populations require investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the epidemiology of pediatric TBI in a midwestern state.
  • To examine differences in TBI incidence, outcomes, and risk factors between metropolitan and nonmetropolitan residents.
  • To report the lowest incidence of pediatric TBI resulting in death or hospitalization to date.

Main Methods:

  • Population-based case series design.
  • Inclusion of patients aged 0-19 years sustaining TBI in 1993, resulting in hospitalization or death.
  • Analysis of incidence, mortality, case-fatality rates, length of stay, discharge status, and Glasgow Outcome Scale scores.

Main Results:

  • A total of 977 pediatric TBI cases were identified.
  • Incidence, mortality, and case-fatality rates were 73.5, 9.3, and 12.8 per 100,000, respectively.
  • Severe TBI was associated with nonmetropolitan residence, higher income, and specific injury mechanisms, with higher mortality and case-fatality rates in non-metropolitan residents.

Conclusions:

  • This study reports the lowest recorded incidence of pediatric TBI leading to death or hospitalization.
  • Half of severely injured pediatric patients experienced poor outcomes (disability or death).
  • Non-metropolitan residents had a higher proportion of severe TBI cases and worse mortality and case-fatality rates compared to metropolitan residents.
Abstract