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Appendiceal transection in a child associated with a lap belt restraint: case report

M B Statter1, A G Coran

  • 1Section of Pediatric Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor.

The Journal of Trauma
|November 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Lap belt restraints can cause severe injuries, known as seatbelt syndrome. This case highlights appendiceal transection, a rare but serious injury in children from lap belts.

Area of Science:

  • Trauma surgery
  • Pediatric surgery
  • Abdominal trauma

Background:

  • Seatbelt syndrome describes injuries from lap belts.
  • Common injuries include intestinal and mesenteric damage, and lumbar spine trauma.

Observation:

  • A case of appendiceal transection was observed.
  • This injury was directly associated with a lap belt restraint.
  • The patient was a small child.

Findings:

  • Appendiceal transection is a previously unreported injury within seatbelt syndrome.
  • Lap belt restraints can cause unique and severe gastrointestinal injuries in pediatric patients.

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential for severe, specific injuries from lap belts in children.
  • Emphasizes the need for vigilance in diagnosing seatbelt-related abdominal trauma.
  • Informs trauma management protocols for pediatric lap belt injuries.

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