Pediatric Surgery Firearm Injury Collaborative Symposium

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Public Health
• Trauma Care

Background:

• Firearm injuries are the leading cause of death for children and youth in the U.S.
• The incidence of firearm-related deaths among young people is increasing annually.
• Pediatric surgeons are at the forefront of treating pediatric firearm injuries and survivors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize key discussions from a symposium of pediatric surgeons addressing firearm injury.
• To highlight current approaches to risk factors, prevention, treatment, and public initiatives.
• To foster national collaborative efforts in combating pediatric firearm violence.

Main Methods:

• Review of presentations from a pre-meeting symposium at the APSA 2023 Annual meeting.
• Compilation of information on risk factors, injury prevention, treatment, public initiatives, and national collaborative efforts.
• Synthesis of evidence from Level 1 through 4 studies presented.

Main Results:

• The symposium convened diverse pediatric surgeons actively engaged in addressing firearm injury.
• Presentations covered a spectrum of critical areas including risk factors, prevention strategies, treatment protocols, public health initiatives, and collaborative national efforts.
• The proceedings underscore the multifaceted approach required to tackle this public health crisis.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric surgeons play a crucial role in preventing firearm injuries and optimizing recovery for young survivors.
• A collaborative, multi-pronged approach involving prevention, best practices in treatment, and public initiatives is essential.
• Continued national collaboration among pediatric surgeons is vital to reduce the burden of firearm injury on children and youth.