Related Experiment Videos
Injection-induced sciatic nerve injury in Nigerian children
1Department of Paediatrics, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. fat@skannet.com
The Central African Journal of Medicine
|April 18, 2002
Summary
Intramuscular injections in children, especially those under five, can lead to sciatic nerve injury. Avoiding this route and using trained personnel can prevent such injuries.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Medicine
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Sciatic nerve injury is a potential complication of medical procedures in children.
- Intramuscular injections, particularly in the buttock, have been implicated in pediatric sciatic nerve injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine predisposing factors for sciatic nerve injury in children.
- To highlight practical preventive measures for sciatic nerve injury in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of pediatric sciatic nerve injury cases.
- Data collected from case files at University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria (1988-1999).
Main Results:
- 27 children diagnosed with sciatic nerve injury; 74% were five years or younger.
- Most patients (74%) presented late with foot drop after buttock intramuscular injections.
- Injections were often administered in private facilities by minimally trained staff.
Conclusions:
- Strongly discourage the intramuscular route for injections when alternatives exist.
- Ensure only trained healthcare professionals administer intramuscular injections.
- Consider alternative injection sites to the buttock in children, especially those under five, to prevent sciatic nerve injury.