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Management of cervical spine injuries in young children: lessons learned
Jodi L Smith1, Laurie L Ackerman
1Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, James Whitcomb Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, USA. jodlsmit@iupui.edu
Insights
Even with car safety seats, improper use can lead to severe injuries. This study highlights the critical need for correct child restraint selection and usage to prevent vehicular trauma in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Traumatology
- Public Health
- Automotive Safety
Background:
- Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death and disability in children under 14.
- Despite increased use of child passenger devices, improper restraint remains a significant issue.
- Car safety seats are crucial for protecting infants and children from vehicular injury.
Observation:
- Two cases of severe cervical spine trauma in young children restrained in car safety seats during motor vehicle crashes are presented.
- Case 1: A 14-month-old girl improperly restrained in a forward-facing booster seat with a lap belt.
- Case 2: A 30-month-old girl restrained in a car safety seat as a rear passenger.
Findings:
- Improper restraint in car safety seats can lead to severe cervical spine trauma in young children.
- Unique challenges exist in treating pediatric cervical spine injuries.
- Appropriate selection and consistent use of child safety seats are paramount.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of correct child safety seat installation and usage.
- Emphasizes the need for increased public and family awareness regarding pediatric automotive safety.
- Informs strategies for preventing severe injuries and fatalities in child passengers.
Abstract:
Previous studies have shown that the correct use of car safety seats can protect infants and children from vehicular injury. Although child passenger devices are increasingly used in the US, motor vehicle crashes continue to be the leading cause of death and acquired disability in infants and children younger than 14 years of age. These events are likely related, at least in part, to the high percentage of children who are unrestrained or improperly restrained. The authors present 2 cases of severe cervical spine trauma in young children restrained in car safety seats during a motor vehicle crash: 1) a previously healthy 14-month-old girl who was improperly restrained in a forward-facing booster seat secured to the vehicle by a lap belt, and 2) a previously healthy 30-month-old girl who was a rear seat passenger restrained in a car safety seat. This study points out the unique challenges encountered in treating cervical spine injuries in infants and young children, as well as the lessons learned, and emphasizes the significance of continuing efforts to increase family and public awareness regarding the importance of appropriate child safety seat selection and use.
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