Clinico-Etiological Profile and Short Term Outcomes in Pediatric Head Injury Cases: Our Institutional Experience

Abstract

Introduction: In developing countries like India, the incidence of TBI is very high. The pathophysiology, clinical presentations and management are different as compared to adults. Hence the need to have a focused study to evaluate etiology and outcomes in Pediatric traumatic head injury. Material and Method: We retrospectively studied 45 cases of pediatric traumatic head injury upto age 14 years presenting to our institute. The study period was of 1 year from june 2022 to june 2023. Demographic data and clinical features were noted and severity was assessed by GCS scale on admission. CT scan was done in all cases. Result: The number of males were 62.2% while 37.7% were females. The mean age of presentation was 5.7 years. The most common etiology in our study was fall (64%) followed by RTA (24%) and sports and others constituting the least (7%). The most common presenting feature was headache (66.6%), vomitting (63.4%) followed seizures (26.4) and loss of consciousness (6%). On basis of GCS, 90% cases were mild in severity and 8% moderate and 2% severe. CT was normal in 32% cases and abnormal in 68% cases with Fractures being more common finding. The short term outcome was good in 95.6% and 4.4% had neurodeficit. Anti convulsants were prescribed to 26% case. Conclusion: There is a urgent need to have studies focused on pediatric head injury cases. In present study we try to contribute to the current literature available in Indian settings. We also want to increase awareness about preventable cases as most of the head injury cases can be avoided by vigilance and care by the parents.