Abstract
After being struck in the left side of the head by a thin metal rod, a 10-year-old, previously healthy male presented to an urgent care clinic with a subcentimeter scalp laceration in the midline parietal area and a normal neurological exam. Evaluation included skull radiographs, which did not demonstrate a definitive fracture. Following laceration repair, the patient was discharged to home. Subsequently, progressive neurological symptoms prompted his family to bring him back for evaluation 2 days later, and computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an open, depressed skull fracture. Surgical intervention was performed with debridement and closure. The patient was placed on a course of intravenous antibiotics and had no subsequent evidence of infection. In cases involving potential cranial perforation by a thin projectile, use of CT imaging or MRI, rather than plain radiographs, may prevent a delay in diagnosis and subsequent complications.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
