Pediatric Head Injury: A Study of 120 Cases

Objectives:  This study aimed to evaluate incidence, mode, and severity of injury, treatment options and to determine the outcome in pediatric age group patients with head injury. Patients & Methods:  120 pediatric patients with a head injury, with ages up to 15 years or less, were included. Detailed history, general and neurological examination including GCS were noted. The CT scans were conducted and the patients managed as per said protocol. Various surgical procedures were performed including craniotomies and evacuation of hematoma, the elevation of depressed fractures and repair of the dura, decompression craniotomies, and evacuation of Subdural collections and contusions. Results:  60.1% of patients were boys and 39.16% were girls. In the majority (63%) of the children, the ‘fall’ was reported. The majority of children (68.3%) in our study had a mild head injury with GCS 13 – 15. 35.83% patients had normal CT scans, and 23.33% had isolated skull fractures. 68.75% patients were with a severe head injury and had a poor outcome. A poor outcome was noted in patients having brain edema, subdural hematoma, and brain contusions. Conclusion:  Head injury in the pediatric age group still continues to be a significant cause of mortality and morbidity. The outcome is directly being related to the severity of injury i.e., GCS. Falls and RTAs are the most common causes and preventive measures in different forms need to be addressed