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Medical complications in children with central nervous system injuries during inpatient rehabilitation

Kristine Marie M Vege1, Grethe Månum2, Katharina S Sunnerhagen3

  • 1Department of Research, Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital, Nesoddtangen, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway. krvege@sunnaas.no.

Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine
|June 15, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Medical complications are common in children with central nervous system (CNS) injuries during inpatient rehabilitation. While many are minor, malnutrition, infections, and spasticity require attention due to their impact on recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Rehabilitation
  • Neurology
  • Medical Complications

Background:

  • Inpatient rehabilitation is crucial for children with central nervous system (CNS) injuries.
  • Medical complications can arise during this critical recovery period.
  • Understanding the frequency and impact of these complications is essential for optimizing care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence and effects of medical complications in pediatric patients undergoing inpatient rehabilitation for CNS injuries.
  • To identify specific complications that significantly influence the rehabilitation process and outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective observational study at a tertiary rehabilitation center.
  • Inclusion of 64 participants aged 2-17 years with acquired CNS injury.
  • Data collection via medical charts and questionnaires assessing complications and their impact.

Main Results:

  • 59 out of 64 participants experienced 183 medical complications of 19 types.
  • Common complications included sleep disturbances, pain, constipation, anemia, infections, spasticity, and malnutrition.
  • While 74% of complications had no impact, malnutrition, infections, and spasticity were linked to interrupted/prolonged stays and altered prognoses.

Conclusions:

  • Medical complications are frequent during inpatient rehabilitation for pediatric CNS injuries.
  • Malnutrition, infections, and spasticity are key complications requiring focused clinical attention and research.
  • Effective management of these specific complications may improve rehabilitation outcomes.
Abstract

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