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Paediatric Trauma
Paediatric Trauma
Paediatric trauma refers to injuries affecting the bones, joints, and soft tissues in children. Due to the unique characteristics of growing bones, children can experience different types of fractures and injuries compared to adults. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications and ensure proper healing.
Symptoms
Pain
Pain is localised at the injury site, often worsening with movement.
Swelling and Bruising
Swelling and discoloration around the injured area.
Deformity
Visible bone misalignment or deformity may be present, especially in severe fractures.
Limited Mobility
Difficulty moving the injured limb or inability to bear weight on the affected area.
Numbness or Tingling
Nerve injury can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limb.
Redness and Warmth
In some cases, the injured area may appear red or warm to the touch, especially if there is an associated infection.
Causes
- Falls: The most common cause, especially during play or sports.
- Sports Injuries: Contact sports or activities with a high risk of collision can lead to fractures and joint injuries.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car accidents can cause more severe trauma.
- Birth Trauma: In newborns, orthopaedic injuries can occur during delivery.
Risk Factors
- High-Impact Sports: Sports like football, basketball, and soccer increase the likelihood of fractures.
- Poor Bone Health: Conditions such as osteoporosis or certain genetic disorders weaken bones.
- Inadequate Supervision: Lack of proper supervision during activities may lead to higher accident rates.
- Unsafe Playgrounds or Environments: Unsafe surfaces or equipment can contribute to accidents.
Diagnosis
- Physical Examination: Doctors assess the child’s range of motion, pain, and swelling to determine the extent of the injury.
- X-rays: The most common imaging method to identify fractures and other bone injuries.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Used to detect soft tissue injuries such as ligament tears or cartilage damage.
- CT Scan: Helpful for complex fractures or areas that are difficult to visualise with standard X-rays.
- Ultrasound: Sometimes used for joint or soft tissue injuries, especially in younger children.
Rehabilitation
After treatment, rehabilitation is essential to ensure the child regains full function and strength. Rehabilitation programs may include:
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
- Occupational Therapy: Help children regain daily functioning, especially after major trauma.
- Gradual Return to Activities: Progressive reintroduction to normal activities and sports as healing occurs.
Complications
- Growth Plate Injuries: Damage to the growth plates can affect future bone growth, leading to deformities or length discrepancies.
- Infection: Open fractures or surgical interventions may lead to infections if not properly managed.
- Nonunion or Malunion: Bones may heal improperly, resulting in nonunion (failure to heal) or malunion (healing in an incorrect position).
- Chronic Pain or Stiffness: Improper healing may lead to long-term pain or limited range of motion.
When To See A Doctor
Paediatric trauma requires prompt and effective treatment to avoid long-term complications. Most injuries heal well with appropriate care, but severe cases may require surgical intervention. A tailored rehabilitation program helps children return to their normal activities and ensures proper bone healing.
Doctors In-Charge
Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon
Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon