Mechanism of Injury and Age Predict Operative Intervention in Pediatric Perineal Injury

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Trauma Care
• Injury Epidemiology

Background:

• Pediatric perineal trauma literature is limited, particularly regarding non-female injuries.
• Understanding demographics, injury mechanisms, and care patterns is crucial for improving outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize pediatric perineal injuries.
• Focus on patient demographics, injury mechanisms, and care patterns.
• Analyze data from a regional level 1 pediatric trauma center.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of patients under 18 years old (2006-2017).
• Utilized International Classification of Diseases codes for patient identification.
• Employed statistical tests and machine learning to analyze injury patterns and predict operative intervention needs.

Main Results:

• 197 patients included; mean age 8.5 years; 50.8% female.
• Blunt trauma (83.8%) was most common; mechanisms varied by age (e.g., MVCs/foreign bodies in older children, falls/bicycles in younger).
• Older children (≥12 years) had more severe injuries (pelvic fractures, genitourinary/colorectal trauma); half required surgery. Age and mechanism predicted operative intervention.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric perineal trauma is diverse, influenced by age, sex, and mechanism.
• Blunt trauma is prevalent, often necessitating surgical management.
• Age and injury mechanism are key factors in determining the need for operative intervention, guiding future practice and prevention.