Presentation and Pattern of Paediatric Head Injury in a Nigerian Tertiary Care Centre: A 7-Years Experience

Abstract

Background: Head injury is a public health concern that constitutes a significant cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Universally, this menace has not spared children of its catastrophic impacts on the quality of life. This study is designed to focus on the characteristics of head injuries among children.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of all the pediatric cases of head injury that were admitted into the wards form January 2007 till December 2013 was done. Data obtained were analyzed using SPSS 15.

Results: A total of 101 patients were studied: 61(60.4%) males and 40 females (39.6%). Children 6 to 12 years were most affected and Road traffic accidents were the most common cause. A significant change in the trend of etiologic factors was noted with a decline in the contribution of road traffic accidents over the years (P 0.036). Mild head injuries were the most common form of head injuries seen.

Conclusion: The downward trend in road traffic accidents as a cause of head injury over the years is laudable as it portrays some progress in the development of safety measures. However, more efforts at generating strategies aimed at improving the safety of our roads for children are an imperative.

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