Retrospective examination of the PECARN algorithm in pediatric patients with minor head trauma

Objective: We aimed to retrospectively evaluate and examine pediatric head trauma cases according to PECARN in the light of their neurological and clinical conditions. We wanted to contribute to the detection of TBI with minimum CT imaging rates in order to avoid radiation-related carcinogenesis. Method: 108 pediatric patients who were admitted to the emergency department due to minor head trauma and were admitted to the neurosurgery clinic were evaluated retrospectively. Result: During follow-up, 9 patients required intensive care and 5 patients underwent neurosurgical surgery. The most common trauma etiology was falling from one's own level with 53.7%. The most common tomography pathology was non-displaced fracture. According to the evaluations made in accordance with the PECARN algorithm, CT was recommended in 18 cases (16.7%); CT was not recommended for 32 cases. Conclusion: The clinician's goal is to quickly and accurately diagnose clinically significant TBI while avoiding unnecessary CT imaging to protect against the adverse effects of radiation. We recommend using the PECARN algorithm for this purpose.