PATTERN AND SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF PEDIATRIC TRAUMA CASES IN A RURAL TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Background: Pediatric trauma remains a significant public health challenge and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children, particularly in low-resource settings. Understanding the patterns of injury, clinical presentations, and outcomes is critical for developing effective prevention and management strategies. Objective: To evaluate the patterns, clinical presentations, management strategies, and outcomes of pediatric trauma cases in a rural tertiary care hospital. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted for about 6 months from June, 2011 to Nov, 2011 in the Department of Paediatric Surgery, Khalifa Gulnawaz Teaching Hospital, Bannu Medical College, Bannu, Pakistan. A total of 300 pediatric trauma cases were analyzed. Data were collected using a structured proforma, including demographic details, injury patterns, clinical presentations, management approaches, and outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant associations, with a P-value of less than 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The majority of trauma cases occurred in children aged 6–10 years (40%), with a male predominance (68%). Falls (45%) and road traffic accidents (30%) were the leading mechanisms of injury, with 60% of injuries occurring at home. Most cases (75%) presented with mild injuries based on Glasgow Coma Scale scores, and 55% required surgical intervention. Postoperative complications were minimal (10%), and the recovery rate was high (80%). However, delays in presentation and poor follow-up compliance were identified as key challenges. Conclusion: Pediatric trauma predominantly affects school-aged boys and is mainly attributable to falls and road traffic accidents. Although the study describes immediate management of acute cases with low complications and mortality rates, the study emphasizes the need to redouble preventive measures, increase parental sensitization, and develop postoperative follow-up programs to achieve optimal outcomes.