Cardiac contusion in a 2 1/2-year-old child

This case was unique in that we were seeing signs and symptoms of a cardiac contusion 11 hours after injury, when cellular edema was causing lethal bradyarrhythmias and hypotension. Keeping the possibility of a cardiac contusion in mind when caring for pediatric patients with trauma and including a 12-lead EKG more routinely for pediatric patients with chest trauma would increase identification of potential problems as early as possible. Although cardiac contusion is not common in children, it must not be overlooked.