Trampoline-Associated Cranial and Spinal Injuries: A 10-Year Study in a Pediatric Neurosurgery Center

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Pediatric Traumatology
• Biomechanics of Injury

Background:

• Trampolines are increasingly popular for recreation among children.
• Previous research has focused on general trampoline injuries, not specifically neurosurgical trauma.
• This study addresses the gap by examining cranial and spinal injuries from trampoline use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the pattern and severity of cranial and spinal injuries in pediatric patients treated at a tertiary pediatric neurosurgery unit.
• To analyze the management and clinical outcomes of these injuries.
• To identify age-related trends in trampoline-associated neurosurgical trauma.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of pediatric patients (<16 years) with suspected or confirmed trampoline-associated cranial or spinal injuries.
• Data collected: age, gender, neurological deficits, radiological findings, management, clinical outcome (2010-2020).
• Analysis focused on injury patterns and trends.

Main Results:

• 44 pediatric patients (mean age 8 years) were identified; 52% were male.
• 43% had head injuries, 20% craniovertebral junction injuries, and 14% other spinal injuries. No concurrent head and spine injuries.
• 31 patients managed conservatively, 11 underwent surgery; one fatality from acute subdural hemorrhage.

Conclusions:

• This is the first study detailing trampoline-associated neurosurgical trauma patterns.
• Younger children (<5 years) are more likely to sustain head injuries, while older children (>11 years) are more prone to spinal injuries.
• Trampoline use requires caution and safety measures due to the potential for severe, surgically managed injuries.