Pediatric Major Head Injury: Not a Minor Problem.

TitlePediatric Major Head Injury: Not a Minor Problem.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2018
AuthorsLeetch AN, Wilson B
JournalEmerg Med Clin North Am
Volume36
Issue2
Pagination459-472
Date Published2018 May
ISSN Number1558-0539
KeywordsBrain Injuries, Brain Ischemia, Child, Child Abuse, Decompressive Craniectomy, Humans, Hyperthermia, Induced, Intracranial Hypertension, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Resuscitation
Abstract

<p>Traumatic brain injury is a highly prevalent and devastating cause of morbidity and mortality in children. A rapid, stepwise approach to the traumatized child should proceed, addressing life-threatening problems first. Management focuses on preventing secondary injury from physiologic extremes such as hypoxemia, hypotension, prolonged hyperventilation, temperature extremes, and rapid changes in cerebral blood flow. Initial Glasgow Coma Score, hyperglycemia, and imaging are often prognostic of outcome. Surgically amenable lesions should be evacuated promptly. Reduction of intracranial pressure through hyperosmolar therapy, decompressive craniotomy, and seizure prophylaxis may be considered after stabilization. Nonaccidental trauma should be considered when evaluating pediatric trauma patients.</p>

DOI10.1016/j.emc.2017.12.012
Alternate JournalEmerg. Med. Clin. North Am.
PubMed ID29622334
Faculty Reference: 
Aaron N. Leetch, MD, FACEP
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