Current opinion in pediatrics
-
Curr. Opin. Pediatr. · Jun 2012
ReviewAcute evaluation of pediatric patients with minor traumatic brain injury.
This review focuses on minor traumatic brain injury (TBI), evaluates the most recent literature regarding clinical prediction rules for the use of cranial computed tomography (CT) in children presenting with minor TBI, reviews the evidence on the need for hospitalization in children with minor TBI, and evaluates the role of S100B testing. ⋯ Clinical prediction rules, most notably the PECARN rules, can be applied to determine children with low-risk TBI and help decrease unnecessary CT use and hospitalizations. S100B testing requires further investigation, but may serve as an adjunct in determining children with low-risk TBI.
-
This review will examine the current evidence regarding pediatric blunt abdominal trauma and the physical exam findings, laboratory values, and radiographic imaging associated with the diagnosis of intra-abdominal injuries (IAI), as well as review the current literature on pediatric hollow viscus injuries and emergency department disposition after diagnosis. ⋯ Although the FAST exam is not recommended as the sole screening tool to rule out IAI in hemodynamically stable trauma patients, it may be used in conjunction with the physical exam and laboratory findings to identify children at risk for IAI. Children with a normal physical exam and normal abdominal CT may not require routine hospitalization after blunt abdominal trauma.
-
We present data from recently conducted research regarding the diagnosis of blunt cervical spine injury (CSI) in children. ⋯ Evidence in the management of children with CSI has expanded in recent years, but further large prospective studies are needed. We present a review of some recent developments influencing clinical practice.
-
The ex-utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT procedure) can be life-saving for fetuses with large neck masses. Advances in fetal imaging and access to prenatal care have improved the ability to anticipate and plan for the treatment of these fetuses. This review will highlight advances in imaging techniques, modification of anesthesia and case selection for the EXIT procedure. Long-term maternal and fetal outcomes will also be discussed. ⋯ The EXIT procedure can be performed safely in a skilled multidisciplinary setting with minimal maternal and fetal morbidity and excellent fetal outcomes. Recent reports have helped further identify which fetuses will benefit from the EXIT procedure.
-
Curr. Opin. Pediatr. · Jun 2012
ReviewBeyond appendicitis: evaluation and surgical treatment of pediatric acute abdominal pain.
Evaluation of the child with acute abdominal pain is challenging because of the wide range of potential diagnoses. Presenting symptoms, clinical examination, and laboratory findings can guide selection of diagnostic imaging. ⋯ Presenting symptoms and physical examination findings can narrow the number of potential diagnoses in pediatric acute abdominal pain and thereby guide diagnostic imaging selection. Abdominal/pelvic ultrasound, rather than computed tomography scan, is the preferred modality for initial evaluation of many potential causes of pediatric abdominal pain.