Managing traumatic brain injury in children: When do we need a computed tomography of the head?

Sudan J Paediatr. 2014;14(1):89-100.

Abstract

Accidents still represent a major cause of death and disability in children. The resultant traumatic brain injury (TBI) usually needs a multidisciplinary approach of management. Although computed tomographic (CT) head scan is generally a preferred investigation in TBI, however, clear guidelines are required to help decision making by different team members on "when a head CT scan is needed", its limitations, and "when it is likely to be informative". The answers to these queries are highlighted, in the present article, with other aspects of treatment of children with TBI. This article discusses different worldwide-accepted approaches for managing children with TBI, and places special emphasis on the issue of "indications for a head CT scan".

Keywords: CT scan; Multidisciplinary team; Saudi Arabia; Traumatic brain injury.

Publication types

  • Case Reports