Penetrating Craniocerebral Injury in Pediatric Patients

Abstract

Penetrating head trauma is rare in the pediatric population, and rarer still in the civilian pediatric population. The high rehabilitation potential of children and the higher likelihood of a low-velocity, survivable injury necessitates careful management to minimize morbidity due to secondary injury from ischemia or infection. Management of penetrating injuries includes patient stabilization, appropriate imaging, and if surgery is needed, entry/exit site debridement with dural closure to prevent cerebrospinal fluid leak. Post-operative care includes infection prevention, intracerebral pressure management, and early identification of vasospasm and pseudoaneurysm formation.