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[Drowning accidents in childhood]
1Kinderchirurgische Klinik im Dr. von Haunerschen Kinderspital, Universität München.
Fortschritte Der Medizin
|September 30, 1990
Summary
Successful resuscitation is crucial for children experiencing cold water submersion and hypothermia. Prompt cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) offers a better chance of survival than immediate rewarming measures.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
- Cardiopulmonary Physiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Cold water submersion incidents in children can lead to severe hypothermia and clinical death.
- Prompt medical intervention is critical for improving outcomes in pediatric drowning victims.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the treatment and outcomes of five young boys who experienced prolonged cold water submersion.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of resuscitation versus rewarming strategies in pediatric hypothermia cases.
Main Methods:
- Case report of five pediatric patients (1-5 years) with cold water immersion.
- Application of prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) followed by controlled rewarming.
- Analysis of clinical outcomes, including survival and neurological sequelae.
Main Results:
- All five patients presented in clinical death post-submersion.
- Successful CPR (1-3 hours) was achieved, with initial rectal temperatures around 27°C.
- Two patients survived with no sequelae, one with apallic syndrome, and two died.
Conclusions:
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be prioritized over rewarming in pediatric cold water immersion emergencies.
- Early and effective resuscitation is a key prognostic factor for survival in near-drowning incidents.
- Treatment guidelines and prognostic indicators for pediatric hypothermia require careful consideration.