Non-accidental injury to children

Abstract

In 1966 the British Paediatric Association published a report from its standing committee on accidents in childhood on "The Battered Baby."* Aft that time ithe attention of paediatricians, neurosurgeons, orthopaedic surgeons, and accident and casualty officers was being drawn to the possibility that among the many babies and children with obvious trauma might be a few injured deliberately by one or both parents or by some other person responsible for itheir care. The clinical observations that should arouse suspicion were described and advice was given about appropriate action when such injury was suspected, advice which still stands. At this time the medical profession was reluctant to accept that a considerable number of injuries arose in this way.