Epidemiological Study of Traumatic Brain and Spinal Injuries in a Pediatric Population: A One-Year Analysis of Prevalence, Causes and Trends

Cureus, 2024 · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57224 · Published: March 29, 2024

Simple Explanation

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI) are significant causes of death and disability in children. This study examines the frequency, causes, and patterns of these injuries in children in Bulgaria. The study reviewed medical records of children under 18 who visited the emergency department of a major hospital in Burgas, Bulgaria, over a year, looking at the causes and types of injuries. The study found that head injuries, particularly concussions from falls, were the most common. Most patients were treated without surgery, highlighting the importance of prevention.

Study Duration

1 Year

Participants

13,857 pediatric patients

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The largest percent are patients with brain concussion (85.07%, n=114).
2
The largest percent are patients who fall from their own height (44.78%, n=60).
3
85.07% of hospitalized patients in neurosurgery did not require surgical treatment and were treated with conservative treatment.

Research Summary

This study highlights a significant burden of pediatric traumatic brain and spinal injuries in Bulgaria. Various types of injuries, predominantly head trauma, with falls being the most common cause, occurred in the pediatric population with an average age of 8.07 years. The need for targeted preventive measures was highlighted by the male predominance and the correlation between age groups and the fact that most of the cases were managed by conservative treatment.

Practical Implications

Injury Prevention Strategies

Emphasize the importance of injury prevention strategies, particularly in promoting safe play environments.

Responsible Behavior Promotion

Promote responsible behavior such as the use of helmets and seatbelts.

Inform Policymakers

Provide population-based data to inform policymakers and drive change through nationwide interventions.

Study Limitations

1
Retrospective nature of the study makes it susceptible to multiple biases, such as information bias.
2
Referral bias may be important because this is a hospital-based study.
3
Need population-based data to effectively inform policy makers' decisions.

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