Magnitude, mechanism and outcome of pediatric trauma at university of gondar comprehensive specialized hospital, 2023

Abstract

IntroductionTrauma is the leading cause of mortality among children older than one year. In fact, injuries alone account for a greater number of deaths in children than all other causes combined. Among children under the age of 19, accidental injuries contribute to 65 % of all injury-related deaths. Limited research on childhood trauma in Ethiopia makes it difficult to fully understand its processes, patterns, and effects. In this research, we thoroughly examine the mechanisms, patterns, and outcomes of pediatric trauma cases at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, located in Northwest Ethiopia, in the year 2023. MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted on a randomly selected sample of 405 pediatric patients who visited the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital between January 1, 2023, and December 30, 2023. Data were extracted from each medical chart using a structured checklist. The collected data were entered into Epi-data 3.1 for cleaning and analyzed using SPSS version 25. The results were reported using tables and text. ResultsA total of 405 patients, consisting of 265 males (65.4 %) and 140 females (34.6 %), were included in this study. The patients had a mean age of 7.1 years and a standard deviation of 4.3. The majority of the patients, 303 (74 %), were under the age of 10. More than half of the trauma cases, 222 (54.8 %), occurred in children from rural areas. Fall-down accidents accounted for 187 (46.2 %) of the cases. The second most common cause of trauma was road traffic incidents with collisions, accounting for 53 (13.1 %) cases. In terms of anatomical location, face and head trauma were the most common, accounting for 165 (40.7 %) cases. This was followed by extremity trauma (upper and lower extremities) in 159 (39.3 %) cases and abdomen and pelvic trauma in 103 (25.4 %) cases. The majority of children, specifically 373 (92.1 %), were discharged with improvement. ConclusionPediatric trauma continues to be a significant issue of public health importance. It is predominantly observed in boys residing in rural areas, with fall-related injuries being the most prevalent cause. Moreover, a majority of the affected individuals experience trauma to the head and face. Therefore, it is imperative to emphasize the necessity of educating the general population about the potential risks associated with pediatric trauma, especially concerning incidents involving falls and motor vehicle collisions. Educating children about the potential hazards linked to activities like climbing trees, crossing roads, and interacting with animals is of utmost importance.