Epidemiology of Pediatric Trauma and its Outcome Presenting to an Emergency Department in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman.

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze pediatric trauma cases treated at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital in Oman, focusing on injury patterns, mechanisms, and outcomes.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of pediatric patients aged 15 years and younger who presented to the emergency department over 12 months, from January to December 2022. Data were collected on demographics, injury characteristics, clinical management, and outcomes, including pediatric intensive care unit admissions and length of stay.

Results: A total of 1643 pediatric trauma cases were included in the study. Most injuries occurred in males (64.8%) and children aged 0-5 years (51.4%). The leading cause of injury was falls from height (50.8%), followed by collisions with fixed objects (12.2%) and sports injuries (8.2%). Injuries predominantly occurred at home (72.7%) and were most frequent during the evening and nighttime (71.5%). Lacerations (32.3%) and soft tissue injuries (19.3%) were the most common types of injuries, with the face (33.0%) and upper extremities (25.3%) being the most frequently affected anatomical sites. Adolescents (11-15 years) were more prone to road traffic accidents and sports-related injuries, while younger children were more vulnerable to falls. Sex differences showed males were more susceptible to lacerations and fractures, while females experienced higher rates of crush injuries and contusions. Most patients (89.3%) were treated and discharged from the emergency department, while 6.7% were admitted to the hospital, and 2.0% had significant clinical outcomes. Patients admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit had higher rates of motor vehicle collisions and polytrauma and required more intensive interventions.

Conclusions: Falls from height were the most common mechanism of injury in our study, particularly among younger children. Males were more frequently affected, with lacerations and soft tissue injuries being the most common injury types. Adolescents were more prone to road traffic and sports-related injuries. The results emphasize the need for targeted preventive measures, especially at home, roadside, and during recreational activities, to reduce pediatric trauma.