Paediatric blunt abdominal trauma with organ injury: a comprehensive analysis of cases at a tertiary hospital in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Pediatric blunt abdominal trauma with organ injuries is a critical issue in Bangladesh, lacking sufficient research. This study focuses on managing such cases in a tertiary hospital. Objectives were to assess clinical characteristics, injury patterns, and outcomes of pediatric patients with blunt abdominal trauma and organ injuries. It aims to identify causes, associated injuries, and hospital stay durations. Methods: A prospective study of 142 pediatric patients aged 1-12 was conducted at Rajshahi medical college hospital study period January 2020 to December 2021. In addition, this study aimed to identify and grade solid organ injuries according to the American association for the surgery of trauma organ injury scale. Results: Prevalence of hepatic injuries (76.8%), solid organ injuries (90.1%), road traffic accidents (71.8%), falls from height (25.4%). Most received conservative treatment, had short hospital stays, and a 7% mortality rate. Gender had no significant impact on organ injuries (p>0.001). Among the causes, 84.5% had hepatic injuries, 15.5% had spleen injuries due to road traffic accidents, and 58.3% had injuries from falls from height, with a highly significant cause-organ injury relationship (p<0.001). Conclusions: pediatric blunt abdominal injuries in Bangladesh affect various organs, primarily in males and school-aged children, primarily due to road accidents. Timely surgical intervention and preventive measures are crucial for improved outcomes.