Pediatric spinal injuries in Eastern India. An institutional experience.

Dr. Sri Krishna Majhi; Dr. Uttareshwar V. Honrao; Dr. Rahul Ahluwalia; Dr. Amar Dhal

Volume : VIII, Issue : VI, June - 2019

Pediatric spinal injuries in Eastern India. An institutional experience.

Dr. Sri Krishna Majhi, Dr. Uttareshwar V. Honrao, Dr. Rahul Ahluwalia, Dr. Amar Dhal

Abstract :

Title: Pediatric spinal injuries in Eastern India. An institutional experience. Observations & results: A total of 42 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the cohort was 8.6 years. The cohort was distributed with a sex ratio of 1.21: 1 (Male: Female). Most common mode of injury was Road traffic accident (RTA) seen amongst 50% (n = 21) whilst the most common mechanism of injury was found to be Hyperflexion seen in 35.71% (n = 15). Most common segment involved was Cervical spine in 57.14% (n= 24). Radiological evaluation revealed SCIWORA in 35.71% (n = 15) and subluxation in 23.80% (n = 10). Clinically, most common presentation was Quadriparesis, seen in 47.61% (n = 20). Polytrauma was seen in 38% (n = 16) with head injury being the most common amongst 68.75% (n = 11). Surgical intervention done in 35.71% (n = 15) ranging from Cervical lateral mass fixation to Laminectomy. Conclusion: The study illustrates the epidemiological profile of Pediatric spinal injuries. Though incidence is low, yet they hamper quality of life. High index of suspicion is necessary to diagnose them, and appropriate protocol should be used to mobilize such patients. Awareness amongst health care workers is essential to reduce associated complications from neurological deficit in pediatric spinal injuries.