Pattern of presentation of traumatic brain injury in pediatric emergency unit of a tertiary care centre

Abstract

Background: The head injuries are unique in the pediatric age group, owing the distinctive characteristics in the anatomy and physiology of the brain, characterized by neuroplasticity. Several factors like physiological changes, etiology, management and its outcome pertaining to TBI needs to be evaluated to probe the potential for being a preventable risk factor. This study was carried out to assess the pattern of presentation of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) among pediatric age group visiting the emergency room. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out among 175 pediatric patients visiting the emergency room with a diagnosis of traumatic brain injury. Patient with moderate to severe traumatic head injury within 72 hours and those aged 1 - 15 years were included. Glasgow coma scale was used to assess and grade the severity of the TBI. Results: Majority of the participants (70.9%) belonged to moderate TBI and 29.1% belonged to severe TBI. Motor vehicle accidents were predominantly associated with severe injury (50%), fall from a height was associated more with moderate TBI. This association was found to be statistically significant (p<0.0005). Conclusion: Considering the impact of specific causes of TBI namely motor vehicle accidents and fall from height, there is a need for implementation of rigorous legislations which can minimize the risk for such accidents involving the pediatric age groups.