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The incidence of delayed splenic bleeding in pediatric blunt trauma
David M Notrica1, Lois W Sayrs1, Amina Bhatia2
1Phoenix Children's Hospital, 1919 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ, USA 85016.
Insights
Delayed splenic bleeding (DSB) is a concern in pediatric blunt splenic injuries (BSI) managed nonoperatively. This multicenter study found no cases of DSB, suggesting a very low incidence in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Trauma Surgery
- Abdominal Trauma Management
- Splenic Injury Treatment
Background:
- Nonoperative management of pediatric blunt splenic injuries (BSI) carries a risk of delayed splenic bleeding (DSB).
- Previous studies indicated a low but present incidence of DSB.
- Evaluating DSB incidence is crucial for optimizing pediatric BSI management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the incidence of delayed splenic bleeding (DSB) in children with blunt splenic injuries (BSI) managed nonoperatively.
- To assess the safety and efficacy of nonoperative management strategies for pediatric BSI.
- To provide updated data on DSB rates from a multicenter prospective study.
Main Methods:
- A 3-year prospective study involving 10 pediatric trauma centers.
- Inclusion of pediatric patients (≤18 years) with blunt splenic injuries (BSI).
- Patient follow-up at 14 and 60 days to monitor for complications like DSB.
Main Results:
- 508 children with BSI were included; median age 11.6 years, median injury grade 3.
- Nonoperative management was successful in 92% of patients (466/508).
- No cases of delayed splenic bleed (DSB) were observed during the study period.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of delayed splenic bleeding (DSB) in pediatric blunt splenic injuries (BSI) managed nonoperatively appears to be very low, potentially less than 0.2%.
- These findings support the continued use and safety of nonoperative management for pediatric BSI.
- Further research may refine understanding of risk factors and optimal follow-up protocols.
Background:
One of the concerns associated with nonoperative management of splenic injury in children has been delayed splenic bleed (DSB) after a period of hemostasis. This study evaluates the incidence of DSB from a multicenter 3-year prospective study of blunt splenic injuries (BSI).
Methods:
A 3-year prospective study was done to evaluate nonoperative management of pediatric (≤18years) BSI presenting to one of 10 pediatric trauma centers. Patients were tracked at 14 and 60days. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize patient and injury characteristics.
Results:
During the study period, 508 children presented with BSI. Median age was 11.6 [IQR: 7.0, 14.8]; median splenic injury grade was 3 [IQR: 2, 4]. Nonoperative management was successful in 466 (92%) with 18 (3.5%) patients undergoing splenectomy at the index admission, all within 3h of injury. No patient developed a delayed splenic bleed. At least one follow-up visit was available for 372 (73%) patients.
Conclusion:
A prior single institution study suggested that the incidence of DSB was 0.33%. Based on our results, we believe that the rate may be less than 0.2%.
Level Of Evidence:
Level II, Prognosis.
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