Introduction: Commotio cerebri often occurs in children. The purpose of this study is to illustrate how children with commotio cerebri are treated at paediatric departments in Denmark
Materials and methods: A questionnaire regarding visitation, admission, observation, discharge and follow-up of children with commotio cerebri as well as department guidelines was mailed to Danish paediatric departments in the period March-September 2006.
Results: Children are often initially treated in the emergency room and admitted to a paediatric department if there is a need for observation. The observation period varies within 24 hours. In most departments observation is standardized, for instance according to the Glasgow Coma Scale. Oral information at discharge is always given, whereas written information about symptoms of commotio cerebri and possible late complications are given by 58% of paediatric departments. Follow-up of the worse cases of commotio cerebri is scheduled by 68% of paediatric departments. Most departments have guidelines for the treatment of patients with commotio cerebri.
Conclusion: There are differences regarding the period of observation for admitted children with commotio cerebri. Oral and written information for parents about deterioration symptoms and possible late complications is recommended along with a statement in the journal of each patient regarding the need for a follow-up. A broader dialogue between the different groups of doctors who treat children with commotio cerebri is recommended.