title: Ping pong fractures: treatment using a new medical device.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study was to assess the use of a new medical device to elevate depressed skull fractures (DSFs) in newborns and minor infants.
  
  
  METHODS
  Nine patients (ranging from 1 day to 9 months of age) with simple DSF underwent skull elevation by a new elevator medical device. This medical device comprises two elements: a pediatric resuscitator (CPR mask) connected to a 50-ml syringe. Pediatric CPR face mask is placed on the depressed region and negative pressure is generated through syringe plunger elevation until fracture reduction is observed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Fracture reduction was confirmed in eight of nine patients by computed tomography scan without underlying brain damage and associated complications. Skull asymmetry was eliminated recovering normal shape. Up to now, there are no neurological concerns. Another treatment was chosen to be applied for one patient who did not respond to manipulation.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The new device is a safe, affordable, and effective choice in the treatment of simple depressed skull fractures in newborns and minor infants.
authors.affiliation: Neurosurgery Department, Dr. Juan I. Menchaca Civil Hospital, Universidad de Guadalajara, Salvador de Quevedo y Zubieta No. 750 S L, C P 44340, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. ramirolopezelizalde@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Ramiro
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: López-Elizalde
authors.forename: Tania
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Leyva-Mastrapa
authors.forename: José Antonio
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Muñoz-Serrano
authors.forename: Marisol
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Godínez-Rubí
authors.forename: Karen
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Preciado-Barón
authors.forename: Héctor
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Velázquez-Santana
authors.forename: Adrián
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Santana-Ramírez
mesh_terms: D003664:Decompression / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D020204:Skull Fracture, Depressed / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome