Epidemiological study of paediatric head injury in a peripheral tertiary trauma care centre

Volume : VII, Issue : V, May - 2018

Dr. Mathiyash Arthur, Dr. Hariharasudan R

Aim/Objective:

To conduct a survey on paediatric Head injury in a peripheral tertiary health centre and to analyze the various epidemiological

factors like incidence, age, sex, mechanism/type of injury, associate injuries, presentation, CT findings, management, period of

stay, Outcome (Condition at discharge).

Methods:

Retrospective study

Inclusion criteria:

All chidren (0–12 years) admitted from March 1, 2017 Feuary 28, 2018. (one year)

Exclusion criteria:

Paediatric head injury cases treated outside for more than 24hrs

Total no of 108 patients have been admitted and treated; the entire above mentioned parameters were analyzed & studied.

Results:

Ÿ There was a striking male preponderance (71%)

Ÿ Most common presenting symptoms vomiting followed by post traumatic Loss of consciousness

Ÿ mean duration of hospital stay 4.8 days (with 84% staying less than 1 week).

Ÿ Most common mode of injury RTA followed by Domestic injuries.

Ÿ Most common indication for surgical intervention Depressed fracture followed by EDH

Ÿ Good outcome in mild head injury cases and early presentation

Conclusion:

Through the retrospective analysis made at Thanjavur medical college hospital trauma unit, we found that there is an alarming

increase in pediatric head injuries in rural areas with cases of assault and battered baby on the rise. We emphasize the importance

of pre hospital care, early referral and need to improve safety measures, road infrastructure,etc., and the need to sensitize the

people regarding the same.