Abdominal injuries in children.
The problem of abdominal trauma in children is briefly reviewed to show how the etiology, diagnosis and treatment differ from those in adults. Although in many ways management is the same in both groups, certain problems more commonly affect children, and the approach to diagnosis and treatment must be adapted to their needs. The importance of frequent clinical assessment and the rather limited role of peritoneal lavage in children with abdominal trauma are stressed. Experience with splenic injuries in 63 patients treated between 1974 and 1979 is reviewed to provide guidelines for conservative management to assist surgeons who seldom treat children. Since splenectomy in pediatric patients carries a risk of overwhelming infection, distinguishing those whose spleens can be salvaged is extremely important.
D000007:Abdominal Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D002648:Child; D004632:Emergency Medical Services; D005751:Gastric Lavage; D006801:Humans; D007441:Intubation, Gastrointestinal; D007813:Laparotomy; D013154:Spleen / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D013156:Splenectomy; D014949:Wounds, Nonpenetrating / Q000601:surgery