Characteristics of minor head trauma in toddlers

Abstract

The objective of present study is to evaluate mechanisms and causes of head trauma, factors influencing management of pediatric minor head trauma, to highlight decision making processes in diagnostic imaging as well as searching for preventive measures for head trauma. Children younger than two years of age who were admitted to emergency department in one-year study period due to minor head trauma were included to the study. To be inside or outside of house did not significantly change the incidence of falls for children younger than two years of age (p=0.096). Incidence of falls was significantly increased at living rooms (p=0.01) and bathrooms (p=0.036). Incidence of scalp hematomas was significantly higher in symptomatic patients (p=0.006). Asymptomatic admission after a minor injury was not a significant factor on decision of diagnostic imaging. A patient’s asymptomatic presentation should not be used as a criterion to rule out cerebral injuries. A lack of obvious signs and symptoms during evaluation does not exclude TBI. Existing serious symptoms should lead to a quick evaluation of patient to rule out a possible surgical emergency. Scalp hematomas are significantly associated with cerebral injury and are a predictor of brain injury. Clinicians should have a lower threshold for imaging in children<2 years of age.