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Ramgopal S. Using Outcome-Based Vital Sign Ranges can Enhance the Identification of Major Trauma in Children. J Pediatr Surg 2024; 59:1230-1231. [PMID: 38508970 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2024.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Sriram Ramgopal
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 225 E Chicago Ave, Box 62 Chicago 60611, IL, USA.
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Holmes JF, Yen K, Ugalde IT, Ishimine P, Chaudhari PP, Atigapramoj N, Badawy M, McCarten-Gibbs KA, Nielsen D, Sage AC, Tatro G, Upperman JS, Adelson PD, Tancredi DJ, Kuppermann N. PECARN prediction rules for CT imaging of children presenting to the emergency department with blunt abdominal or minor head trauma: a multicentre prospective validation study. THE LANCET. CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2024; 8:339-347. [PMID: 38609287 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(24)00029-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The intra-abdominal injury and traumatic brain injury prediction rules derived by the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN) were designed to reduce inappropriate use of CT in children with abdominal and head trauma, respectively. We aimed to validate these prediction rules for children presenting to emergency departments with blunt abdominal or minor head trauma. METHODS For this prospective validation study, we enrolled children and adolescents younger than 18 years presenting to six emergency departments in Sacramento (CA), Dallas (TX), Houston (TX), San Diego (CA), Los Angeles (CA), and Oakland (CA), USA between Dec 27, 2016, and Sept 1, 2021. We excluded patients who were pregnant or had pre-existing neurological disorders preventing examination, penetrating trauma, injuries more than 24 h before arrival, CT or MRI before transfer, or high suspicion of non-accidental trauma. Children presenting with blunt abdominal trauma were enrolled into an abdominal trauma cohort, and children with minor head trauma were enrolled into one of two age-segregated minor head trauma cohorts (younger than 2 years vs aged 2 years and older). Enrolled children were clinically examined in the emergency department, and CT scans were obtained at the attending clinician's discretion. All enrolled children were evaluated against the variables of the pertinent PECARN prediction rule before CT results were seen. The primary outcome of interest in the abdominal trauma cohort was intra-abdominal injury undergoing acute intervention (therapeutic laparotomy, angiographic embolisation, blood transfusion, intravenous fluid for ≥2 days for pancreatic or gastrointestinal injuries, or death from intra-abdominal injury). In the age-segregated minor head trauma cohorts, the primary outcome of interest was clinically important traumatic brain injury (neurosurgery, intubation for >24 h for traumatic brain injury, or hospital admission ≥2 nights for ongoing symptoms and CT-confirmed traumatic brain injury; or death from traumatic brain injury). FINDINGS 7542 children with blunt abdominal trauma and 19 999 children with minor head trauma were enrolled. The intra-abdominal injury rule had a sensitivity of 100·0% (95% CI 98·0-100·0; correct test for 145 of 145 patients with intra-abdominal injury undergoing acute intervention) and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 100·0% (95% CI 99·9-100·0; correct test for 3488 of 3488 patients without intra-abdominal injuries undergoing acute intervention). The traumatic brain injury rule for children younger than 2 years had a sensitivity of 100·0% (93·1-100·0; 42 of 42) for clinically important traumatic brain injuries and an NPV of 100·0%; 99·9-100·0; 2940 of 2940), whereas the traumatic brain injury rule for children aged 2 years and older had a sensitivity of 98·8% (95·8-99·9; 168 of 170) and an NPV of 100·0% (99·9-100·0; 6015 of 6017). The two children who were misclassified by the traumatic brain injury rule were admitted to hospital for observation but did not need neurosurgery. INTERPRETATION The PECARN intra-abdominal injury and traumatic brain injury rules were validated with a high degree of accuracy. Their implementation in paediatric emergency departments can therefore be considered a safe strategy to minimise inappropriate CT use in children needing high-quality care for abdominal or head trauma. FUNDING The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.
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Affiliation(s)
- James F Holmes
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA.
| | - Kenneth Yen
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA; Children's Health, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Irma T Ugalde
- Department of Emergency Medicine, McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Paul Ishimine
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Pradip P Chaudhari
- Division of Emergency and Transport Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Nisa Atigapramoj
- Department of Emergency Medicine, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Mohamed Badawy
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA; Children's Health, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | - Donovan Nielsen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Allyson C Sage
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Grant Tatro
- Virginia Commonwealth School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Upperman
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - P David Adelson
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Daniel J Tancredi
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Nathan Kuppermann
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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3
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Acker SN, Weaver K. Limiting radiation exposure when evaluating injured children. THE LANCET. CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2024; 8:312-313. [PMID: 38609284 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(24)00085-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon N Acker
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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Gunnink SM, Butz AM, Griep J, Starrs M, Ponkowski M, Parker JL, Benner C. Clinical Predictors of Major Intrathoracic Injury in Pediatric Blunt Trauma. Pediatr Emerg Care 2024; 40:10-15. [PMID: 38157393 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000003102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Blunt trauma in pediatric patients accounts for a significant proportion of pediatric death from traumatic injury. Currently, there are no clinical decision-making tools available to guide imaging choice in the evaluation of pediatric patients with blunt thoracic trauma (BTT). This study aimed to analyze the rates of missed major intrathoracic injuries on chest x-ray (CXR) and identify clinical risk factors associated with major intrathoracic injuries to formulate a clinical decision-making tool for computed tomography (CT) use in pediatric patients with BTT. METHODS We performed a retrospective single-center study using an institutional trauma database of pediatric patients. Inclusion criteria included age, blunt trauma, and patients who received a CXR and thoracic CT within 24 hours of presentation. Thoracic CT findings were graded as major, minor, or none, and comparison CXR was used to determine the rate of missed thoracic injuries. Eighty-four patient variables were then collected, and clinically relevant variables associated with major intrathoracic injuries were placed in a logistic regression model to determine the best predictors of major injury in pediatric BTT patients. RESULTS A total of 180 patients (48.3%) had CXR that missed an injury that was seen on thoracic CT. In our cohort, 20 patients (5.4%) had major injuries that were missed on CXR. Characteristics correlating with major thoracic injuries were older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.125; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.015-1.247), chest pain (OR, 4.907; 95% CI, 2.173-11.083), abnormal chest auscultation (OR, 3.564; 95% CI, 1.406-9.035), and tachycardia (OR, 2.876; 95% CI, 1.256-6.586). Using these 4 variables, receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed an area under the curve of 0.7903. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric BTT patients older than 15 years with tachycardia, chest pain, or abnormal chest auscultation are at increased risk for major intrathoracic injuries and may benefit from thoracic CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M Gunnink
- From the Department of Emergency Medicine, Corewell Health Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI
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Cusack B, Cash M, Tuohy K, Brady-Olympia J, Olympia RP. Management of Acute Injury and Illness in Pediatric Athletes by Athletic Trainers: Compliance With Emergency Medicine and Athletic Trainer Evidence-Based Guidelines. Pediatr Emerg Care 2023; 39:945-952. [PMID: 38019713 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000003073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine athletic trainer compliance with emergency medicine and athletic training evidence-based guidelines for the on-the-field management of common pediatric sports-related injury and illness. METHODS A questionnaire was distributed electronically to selected members of the National Athletic Trainer Association. The questionnaire included 10 clinical scenarios describing common sports-related injury/illness (closed head injury, cervical spine injury, blunt chest injury, blunt abdominal injury, ankle injury, knee injury with laceration, heat-related illness). On-the-field management decisions for each scenario were compared with selected emergency medicine and athletic training guidelines. RESULTS Analysis was performed on 564 completed questionnaires (9% response rate). Responders were compliant with practice guidelines for both emergency medicine and athletic training except for blunt chest trauma with tachycardia, closed head injury with loss of consciousness, closed head injury with repetitive speech, closed head injury with a fall higher than 5 feet, cervical spine injury with paresthesias, and heat-related illness with persistent symptoms. Discrepancies between emergency medicine and athletic training guidelines included closed head injury with repetitive speech, closed head injury and height of fall, closed head injury and unequal pupils, and cervical spine injury with neck pain and paresthesias. CONCLUSIONS Based on our sample, athletic trainers were compliant with many guidelines supported by both emergency medicine and athletic training. We identified several deficiencies in the availability of evidence-based guidelines and discrepancies between these guidelines and athletic trainer responses. To provide optimal care to pediatric athletes who sustain injury or illness, emergency medicine and athletic training organizations should collaborate to improve these discrepancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan Cusack
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA
| | - Morgan Cash
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA
| | - Kyle Tuohy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA
| | - Jodi Brady-Olympia
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA
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Schunn MC, Schäfer J, Neunhoeffer F, Lieber J, Fuchs J. [Blunt abdominal trauma in children and adolescents: treatment concepts in the acute phase]. CHIRURGIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 94:651-663. [PMID: 37338573 DOI: 10.1007/s00104-022-01798-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Fatal accidents due to blunt force trauma are the leading cause of death in children and adolescents [1]. Abdominal trauma is the third most common cause of death after traumatic brain injury and thoracic injuries [2]. Abdominal injury is seen in approximately 2-5% of children involved in accidents [3]. Blunt abdominal injuries are common sequelae of traffic accidents (for example as seat belt injury), falls, and sports accidents. Penetrating abdominal injuries are rare in central Europe. Spleen, liver, and kidney lacerations are the most common injuries after blunt abdominal trauma [4]. In most situations, nonoperative management (NOM) has become the gold standard with the surgeon leading the multidisciplinary treatment [5].
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Schunn
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Abteilung für Kinderchirurgie und Kinderurologie, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Str. 3, 72076, Tübingen, Deutschland.
| | - J Schäfer
- Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Abteilung für Kinderradiologie, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Str. 3, 72076, Tübingen, Deutschland
| | - F Neunhoeffer
- Klinik für Kinderheilkunde, Abteilung für Kinderkardiologie, Intensivmedizin und Pulmonologie, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Str. 3, 72076, Tübingen, Deutschland
| | - J Lieber
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Abteilung für Kinderchirurgie und Kinderurologie, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Str. 3, 72076, Tübingen, Deutschland
| | - J Fuchs
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Abteilung für Kinderchirurgie und Kinderurologie, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Str. 3, 72076, Tübingen, Deutschland
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Zakaria OM, Daoud MYI, Zakaria HM, Al Naim A, Al Bshr FA, Al Arfaj H, Al Abdulqader AA, Al Mulhim KN, Buhalim MA, Al Moslem AR, Bubshait MS, AlAlwan QM, Eid AF, AlAlwan MQ, Albuali WH, Hassan AA, Kamal AH, Majzoub RA, AlAlwan AQ, Saleh OA. Management of pediatric blunt abdominal trauma with split liver or spleen injuries: a retrospective study. Pediatr Surg Int 2023; 39:106. [PMID: 36757505 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-023-05379-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blunt abdominal trauma is a prevailing cause of pediatric morbidity and mortality. It constitutes the most frequent type of pediatric injuries. Contrast-enhanced sonography (CEUS) and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) are considered pivotal diagnostic modalities in hemodynamically stable patients. AIM To report the experience in management of pediatric split liver and spleen injuries using CEUS and CECT. PATIENTS AND METHODS This study included 246 children who sustained blunt abdominal trauma, and admitted and treated at three tertiary hospitals in the period of 5 years. Primary resuscitation was offered to all children based on the advanced trauma and life support (ATLS) protocol. A special algorithm for decision-making was followed. It incorporated the FAST, baseline ultrasound (US), CEUS, and CECT. Patients were treated according to the imaging findings and hemodynamic stability. RESULTS All 246 children who sustained a blunt abdominal were studied. Patients' age was 10.5 ± 2.1. Road traffic accidents were the most common cause of trauma; 155 patients (63%). CECT showed the extent of injury in 153 patients' spleen (62%) and 78 patients' liver (32%), while the remaining 15 (6%) patients had both injuries. CEUS detected 142 (57.7%) spleen injury, and 67 (27.2%) liver injury. CONCLUSIONS CEUS may be a useful diagnostic tool among hemodynamically stable children who sustained low-to-moderate energy isolated blunt abdominal trauma. It may be also helpful for further evaluation of uncertain CECT findings and follow-up of conservatively managed traumatic injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ossama M Zakaria
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia. .,Departments of Surgery and Emergency, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt. .,Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mohamed Yasser I Daoud
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hazem M Zakaria
- Departments of Surgery and Pediatrics, Imam Abdul Rahman Al-Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman Al Naim
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatemah A Al Bshr
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haytham Al Arfaj
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad A Al Abdulqader
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid N Al Mulhim
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed A Buhalim
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman R Al Moslem
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed S Bubshait
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Qasem M AlAlwan
- Radiology Department of King Fahd Hospital, Al-Ahsa, l-Ministry of Health-Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed F Eid
- Medical Imaging Department, King Abdul-Aziz Hospital, Health Affairs of the Ministry of National Guard, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Q AlAlwan
- Radiology Department of King Fahd Hospital, Al-Ahsa, l-Ministry of Health-Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed H Albuali
- Departments of Surgery and Pediatrics, Imam Abdul Rahman Al-Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Ahmed Hassan Kamal
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rabab Abbas Majzoub
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Q AlAlwan
- Departments of Surgery, Emergency, and Pediatrics College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar Abdelrahman Saleh
- Departments of Surgery and Emergency, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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Stottlemyre RL, Notrica DM, Cohen AS, Sayrs LW, Naiditch J, St Peter SD, Leys CM, Ostlie DJ, Maxson RT, Ponsky T, Eubanks JW, Bhatia A, Greenwell C, Lawson KA, Alder AC, Johnson J, Garvey E. Hemodilution in pediatric trauma: Defining the expected hemoglobin changes in patients with liver and/or spleen injury: An ATOMAC+ secondary analysis. J Pediatr Surg 2023; 58:325-329. [PMID: 36428184 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2022.10.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many children with blunt liver and/or spleen injury (BLSI) never bleed intraperitoneally. Despite this, decreases in hemoglobin are common. This study examines initial and follow up measured hemoglobin values for children with BLSI with and without evidence of intra-abdominal bleeding. METHODS Children ≤18 years of age with BLSI between April 2013 and January 2016 were identified from the prospective ATOMAC+ cohort. Initial and follow up hemoglobin levels were analyzed for 4 groups with BLSI: (1) Non bleeding; (2) Bleeding, non transfused (3) Bleeding, transfused, and (4) Bleeding resulting in non operative management (NOM) failure. RESULTS Of 1007 patients enrolled, 767 were included in one or more of four study cohorts. Of 131 non bleeding patients, the mean decrease in hemoglobin was 0.83 g/dL (+/-1.35) after a median of 6.3 [5.1,7.0] hours, (p = 0.001). Follow-up hemoglobin levels in patients with and without successful NOM were not different. For patients with an initial hemoglobin >9.25 g/dL, the odds ratio (OR) for NOM failure was 14.2 times less, while the OR for transfusion was 11.4 times less (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION Decreases in hemoglobin are expected after trauma, even if not bleeding. A hemoglobin decrease of 2.15 g/dL [0.8 + 1.35] would still be within one standard deviation of a non bleeding patient. An initial low hemoglobin correlates with failure of NOM as well as transfusion, thereby providing useful information. By contrast, subsequent hemoglobin levels do not appear to guide the need for transfusion, nor correlate with failure of NOM. These results support initial hemoglobin measurement but suggest a lack of utility for routine rechecking of hemoglobin. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level II Prognostic Study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael L Stottlemyre
- Phoenix Children's, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States; University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, United States
| | - David M Notrica
- Phoenix Children's, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States; University of Arizona College of Medicine Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States; Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Phoenix, AZ 85054, United States.
| | - Aaron S Cohen
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, United States
| | - Lois W Sayrs
- Children's Hospital of Orange County Research Institute, Orange, CA 92868, United States
| | | | | | - Charles M Leys
- American Family Children's Hospital, Madison, WI 53792, United States
| | - Daniel J Ostlie
- Phoenix Children's, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States; American Family Children's Hospital, Madison, WI 53792, United States
| | - R Todd Maxson
- Arkansas Children's Hospital, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States
| | - Todd Ponsky
- Dell Children's Medical Center, Austin, TX 78723, United States; Akron Children's Hospital, Akron, OH 44308, United States
| | - James W Eubanks
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
| | - Amina Bhatia
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States
| | | | - Karla A Lawson
- Dell Children's Medical Center, Austin, TX 78723, United States
| | - Adam C Alder
- Children's Medical Center Dallas, Dallas, TX 75235, United States
| | - Jeremy Johnson
- The Children's Hospital at OU Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, United States
| | - Erin Garvey
- Phoenix Children's, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States; University of Arizona College of Medicine Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States; Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Phoenix, AZ 85054, United States
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Mahdi E, Toscano N, Pierson L, Ndikumana E, Ayers B, Chacon A, Brayer A, Chess M, Davis C, Dorman R, Livingston M, Arca M, Wakeman D. Sustaining the gains: Reducing unnecessary computed tomography scans in pediatric trauma patients. J Pediatr Surg 2023; 58:111-117. [PMID: 36272813 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2022.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE "Pan-scanning" pediatric blunt trauma patients leads to exposure to harmful radiation and increased healthcare costs without improving outcomes. We aimed to reduce computed tomography (CT) scans that are not indicated (NI) by imaging guidelines for injured children. METHODS In July 2017, our Pediatric Trauma Center prospectively implemented validated imaging guidelines to direct CT imaging for trauma activations and consultations for children younger than 16 years old with blunt traumatic injuries. Patients with suspected physical abuse, CT imaging prior to arrival, penetrating mechanism, and instability precluding CT imaging were excluded. We compared CT scanning rates for pre-implementation (01/2016-06/2017) and post-implementation (07/2017-08/2021) time periods. Guideline compliance was evaluated by chart review and sustained through iterative process improvement cycles. RESULTS During the pre-implementation era, 61 patients underwent 171 CT scans of which 87 (51%) scans were not indicated by guidelines. Post-implementation, 363 patients had 531 scans and only 134 (25%) CTs were not indicated. Total CTs performed declined after initiation of guidelines (2.80 vs 1.46 scans/patient, p<0.0001). Total NI CTs declined (1.41 vs 0.37 NI scans/patient, p<0.0001) reflected in significant reductions in all anatomic regions: head, cervical spine, chest, and abdomen/pelvis. Charges related to NI scans decreased from $1,490.31/patient to $408.21/patient, saving $218,000 in charges. Based on prior utilization, 146 children were spared excessive radiation with no clinically significant missed injuries since guideline implementation. CONCLUSIONS Quality improvement and implementation science methodologies to enhance compliance with imaging guidelines for children with blunt injuries can significantly reduce unnecessary CT scanning without compromising care. This practice reduces harmful radiation exposure in a sensitive patient population and may save healthcare systems money and resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaa Mahdi
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Nicole Toscano
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Lauren Pierson
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Eric Ndikumana
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Brian Ayers
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Alexander Chacon
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Anne Brayer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Mitchell Chess
- Department of Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Colleen Davis
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Robert Dorman
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Michael Livingston
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Marjorie Arca
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Derek Wakeman
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States.
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Ramgopal S, Sanchez-Pinto LN, Horvat CM, Carroll MS, Luo Y, Florin TA. Artificial intelligence-based clinical decision support in pediatrics. Pediatr Res 2023; 93:334-341. [PMID: 35906317 PMCID: PMC9668209 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-022-02226-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Machine learning models may be integrated into clinical decision support (CDS) systems to identify children at risk of specific diagnoses or clinical deterioration to provide evidence-based recommendations. This use of artificial intelligence models in clinical decision support (AI-CDS) may have several advantages over traditional "rule-based" CDS models in pediatric care through increased model accuracy, with fewer false alerts and missed patients. AI-CDS tools must be appropriately developed, provide insight into the rationale behind decisions, be seamlessly integrated into care pathways, be intuitive to use, answer clinically relevant questions, respect the content expertise of the healthcare provider, and be scientifically sound. While numerous machine learning models have been reported in pediatric care, their integration into AI-CDS remains incompletely realized to date. Important challenges in the application of AI models in pediatric care include the relatively lower rates of clinically significant outcomes compared to adults, and the lack of sufficiently large datasets available necessary for the development of machine learning models. In this review article, we summarize key concepts related to AI-CDS, its current application to pediatric care, and its potential benefits and risks. IMPACT: The performance of clinical decision support may be enhanced by the utilization of machine learning-based algorithms to improve the predictive performance of underlying models. Artificial intelligence-based clinical decision support (AI-CDS) uses models that are experientially improved through training and are particularly well suited toward high-dimensional data. The application of AI-CDS toward pediatric care remains limited currently but represents an important area of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sriram Ramgopal
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - L. Nelson Sanchez-Pinto
- grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Division of Critical Care Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL USA ,grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Department of Preventive Medicine (Health and Biomedical Informatics), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Christopher M. Horvat
- grid.21925.3d0000 0004 1936 9000Department of Critical Care Medicine, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Michael S. Carroll
- grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Data Analytics and Reporting, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Yuan Luo
- grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Department of Preventive Medicine (Health and Biomedical Informatics), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Todd A. Florin
- grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Division of Emergency Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL USA
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Perin I, Guetter CR, Klüppel LE, Fachin CG, Pimentel SK. CT scan in the evaluation of pediatric abdominal trauma. Rev Col Bras Cir 2022; 49:e20223246. [PMID: 36515330 PMCID: PMC10578840 DOI: 10.1590/0100-6991e-20223246-en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to assess the need of computed tomography (CT) for the definition of management in pediatric abdominal trauma. METHODS observational retrospective study with patients under 18 years old victims of blunt or penetrating abdominal trauma that underwent CT of the abdomen and pelvis at admission. We evaluated CT scan findings, indications and management. We calculated the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of clinical variables and energy of trauma for findings on CT. RESULTS among the 236 patients included in our study, 72% (n=170) did not present abnormal findings on CT. It was performed surgical treatment in 15% (n=10), conservative treatment in 54,5% (n=36) and 27% (n=18) did not receive treatment for abdominal injuries. In the assessment of CT indications, 28,8% (n=68) presented no justifications. In this group, 91% (n=62) did not show any abnormal findings. Among the six patients with positive findings, half were selected for conservative treatment, while the rest did not need any treatment for abdominal injuries. The presence of abdominal pain, hemodynamic alterations and high energy blunt trauma had low positive predictive values when isolated, whereas the negative predictive values were higher. CONCLUSION although CT is necessary in some instances, there is a possible high number of exams that did not make any difference in the management of the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Perin
- - Universidade Federal do Paraná - Curitiba - PR - Brasil
| | - Camila Roginski Guetter
- - Universidade Federal do Paraná - Curitiba - PR - Brasil
- - Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health - Baltimore - Maryland - Estados Unidos
| | | | | | - Silvania Klug Pimentel
- - Universidade Federal do Paraná - Curitiba - PR - Brasil
- - Hospital do Trabalhador, Cirurgia Geral - Curitiba - PR - Brasil
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12
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Ugalde IT, Chaudhari PP, Badawy M, Ishimine P, McCarten-Gibbs KA, Yen K, Atigapramoj NS, Sage A, Nielsen D, Adelson PD, Upperman J, Tancredi D, Kuppermann N, Holmes JF. Validation of Prediction Rules for Computed Tomography Use in Children With Blunt Abdominal or Blunt Head Trauma: Protocol for a Prospective Multicenter Observational Cohort Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e43027. [PMID: 36422920 PMCID: PMC9732756 DOI: 10.2196/43027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and intra-abdominal injuries (IAIs) are 2 leading causes of traumatic death and disability in children. To avoid missed or delayed diagnoses leading to increased morbidity, computed tomography (CT) is used liberally. However, the overuse of CT leads to inefficient care and radiation-induced malignancies. Therefore, to maximize precision and minimize the overuse of CT, the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN) previously derived clinical prediction rules for identifying children at high risk and very low risk for IAIs undergoing acute intervention and clinically important TBIs after blunt trauma in large cohorts of children who are injured. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to validate the IAI and age-based TBI clinical prediction rules for identifying children at high risk and very low risk for IAIs undergoing acute intervention and clinically important TBIs after blunt trauma. METHODS This was a prospective 6-center observational study of children aged <18 years with blunt torso or head trauma. Consistent with the original derivation studies, enrolled children underwent routine history and physical examinations, and the treating clinicians completed case report forms prior to knowledge of CT results (if performed). Medical records were reviewed to determine clinical courses and outcomes for all patients, and for those who were discharged from the emergency department, a follow-up survey via a telephone call or SMS text message was performed to identify any patients with missed IAIs or TBIs. The primary outcomes were IAI undergoing acute intervention (therapeutic laparotomy, angiographic embolization, blood transfusion, or intravenous fluid for ≥2 days for pancreatic or gastrointestinal injuries) and clinically important TBI (death from TBI, neurosurgical procedure, intubation for >24 hours for TBI, or hospital admission of ≥2 nights due to a TBI on CT). Prediction rule accuracy was assessed by measuring rule classification performance, using standard point and 95% CI estimates of the operational characteristics of each prediction rule (sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and diagnostic likelihood ratios). RESULTS The project was funded in 2016, and enrollment was completed on September 1, 2021. Data analyses are expected to be completed by December 2022, and the primary study results are expected to be submitted for publication in 2023. CONCLUSIONS This study will attempt to validate previously derived clinical prediction rules to accurately identify children at high and very low risk for clinically important IAIs and TBIs. Assuming successful validation, widespread implementation is then indicated, which will optimize the care of children who are injured by better aligning CT use with need. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR1-10.2196/43027.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irma T Ugalde
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Pradip P Chaudhari
- Division of Emergency and Transport Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Mohamed Badawy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Paul Ishimine
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Kevan A McCarten-Gibbs
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Kenneth Yen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Nisa S Atigapramoj
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Allyson Sage
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Donovan Nielsen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - P David Adelson
- Barrow Neurological Institute of Phoenix Children's Hospital, Department of Child Health, Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Jeffrey Upperman
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Daniel Tancredi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Nathan Kuppermann
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - James F Holmes
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, United States
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13
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Swaffield TP, Greene A, Tsai AY, Olympia RP. Two cases of splenic injuries in adolescent lacrosse players. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC SURGERY CASE REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.epsc.2022.102433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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14
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Letter to Editor in response to: CT scans for pediatric injury in a middle-income country trauma center: Are we repeating past mistakes? J Pediatr Surg 2022; 57:487. [PMID: 35613978 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2022.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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15
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Rinnan JMA, Latreille J, Nanassy AD, Gaughan J, Lindholm EB, Grewal H, Kassutto Z, Arthur LG. Reducing Phlebotomy, Length of Stay, Cost: Development of a Blunt Abdominal Trauma Pathway in a Level I, Pediatric Trauma Center. Pediatr Emerg Care 2022; 38:550-554. [PMID: 35905444 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Blunt abdominal trauma (BAT) is a leading cause of morbidity in children with higher hemodynamic stabilities when compared with adults. Pediatric patients with BAT can often be managed without surgical interventions; however, laboratory testing is often recommended. Yet, laboratory testing can be costly, and current literature has not identified appropriate pathways or specific tests necessary to detect intra-abdominal injury after BAT. Therefore, the present study evaluated a proposed laboratory testing pathway to determine if it safely reduced draws of complete blood counts, coagulation studies, urinalysis, comprehensive metabolic panels, amylase and lipase levels orders, emergency department (ED) length of stay, and cost in pediatric BAT patients. METHODS A retrospective review of levels I, II, and III BAT pediatric patients (n = 329) was performed from 2015 to 2018 at our level I, pediatric trauma center. Patients were then grouped based on pre-post pathway, and differences were calculated using univariate analyses. RESULTS After implementation of the pathway, there was a significant decrease in the number of complete blood counts, coagulation studies, urinalysis, comprehensive metabolic panels, amylase, and lipase levels orders ( P < 0.05). Postpathway patients had lower average ED lengths of stay and testing costs compared with the pre pathway patients ( P < 0.05). There was no increase in rates of return to the ED within 30 days, missed injuries, or readmissions of patients to the ED. CONCLUSIONS Results displayed that the adoption of a laboratory testing pathway for BAT patients reduced the number of laboratory tests, ED length of stay, and associated costs pediatric patients without impacting quality care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Autumn D Nanassy
- Research Department, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, PA
| | - John Gaughan
- Department of Medicine, Rowan University Cooper Medical School, Camden, NJ
| | - Erika B Lindholm
- Pediatric Surgery Department, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, PA
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16
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Notrica D. Evidence-based management of pediatric solid organ injury. Semin Pediatr Surg 2022; 31:151216. [PMID: 36395651 DOI: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2022.151216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David Notrica
- Phoenix Children's - Division of Pediatric Surgery, 1919 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016-7710.
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17
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Pegoraro F, Giusti G, Giacalone M, Parri N. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound in pediatric blunt abdominal trauma: a systematic review. J Ultrasound 2022; 25:419-427. [PMID: 35040101 PMCID: PMC9402848 DOI: 10.1007/s40477-021-00623-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Intra-abdominal injury is a major cause of morbidity in children. Computed tomography (CT) is the reference standard for the evaluation of hemodynamically stable abdominal trauma. CT has an increased risk of long-term radiation induced malignancies and a possible risk associated with the use of iodinated contrast media. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) might represent an alternative to CT in stable children with blunt abdominal trauma (BAT). Nonetheless, CEUS in pediatrics remains limited by the lack of strong evidence. The purpose of this study was to offer a systematic review on the use of CEUS in pediatric abdominal trauma. METHODS Electronic search of PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane databases of studies investigating CEUS for abdominal trauma in children. The risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. RESULTS This systematic review included 7 studies. CEUS was performed with different ultrasound equipment, always with a curvilinear transducer. Six out of seven studies used a second-generation contrast agent. No immediate adverse reactions were reported. The dose of contrast agent and the scanning technique varied between studies. All CEUS exams were performed by radiologists, in the radiology department or at the bedside. No standard training was reported to become competent in CEUS. The range of sensitivity and specificity of CEUS were 85.7 to 100% and 89 to 100%, respectively. CONCLUSION CEUS appears to be safe and accurate to identify abdominal solid organ injuries in children with BAT. Further research is necessary to assess the feasibility of CEUS by non-radiologists, the necessary training, and the benefit-cost ratio of CEUS as a tool to potentially reduce CT scans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Giusti
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Trauma Center, Meyer University Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Martina Giacalone
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Trauma Center, Meyer University Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Niccolò Parri
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Trauma Center, Meyer University Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy.
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18
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Ramgopal S, Lorenz D, Ambroggio L, Navanandan N, Cotter JM, Florin TA. Identifying Potentially Unnecessary Hospitalizations in Children With Pneumonia. Hosp Pediatr 2022; 12:788-806. [PMID: 36000331 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2022-006608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the outcomes of children with community acquired pneumonia (CAP) across 41 United States hospitals and evaluate factors associated with potentially unnecessary admissions. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study of patients with CAP from 41 United States pediatric hospitals and evaluated clinical outcomes using a composite ordinal severity outcome: mild-discharged (discharged from the emergency department), mild-admitted (hospitalized without other interventions), moderate (provision of intravenous fluids, supplemental oxygen, broadening of antibiotics, complicated pneumonia, and presumed sepsis) or severe (ICU, positive-pressure ventilation, vasoactive infusion, chest drainage, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, severe sepsis, or death). Our primary outcome was potentially unnecessary admissions (ie, mild-admitted). Among mild-discharged and mild-admitted patients, we constructed a generalized linear mixed model for mild-admitted severity and assessed the role of fixed (demographics and clinical testing) and random effects (institution) on this outcome. RESULTS Of 125 180 children, 68.3% were classified as mild-discharged, 6.6% as mild-admitted, 20.6% as moderate and 4.5% as severe. Among admitted patients (n = 39 692), 8321 (21%) were in the mild-admitted group, with substantial variability in this group across hospitals (median 19.1%, interquartile range 12.8%-28.4%). In generalized linear mixed models comparing mild-admitted and mild-discharge severity groups, hospital had the greatest contribution to model variability compared to all other variables. CONCLUSIONS One in 5 hospitalized children with CAP do not receive significant interventions. Among patients with mild disease, institutional variation is the most important contributor to predict potentially unnecessary admissions. Improved prognostic tools are needed to reduce potentially unnecessary hospitalization of children with CAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sriram Ramgopal
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Douglas Lorenz
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Lilliam Ambroggio
- Section of Pediatric Emergency Medicine and
- Section of Pediatric Hospital Medicine, Children's Hospital Colorado, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | | | - Jillian M Cotter
- Section of Pediatric Hospital Medicine, Children's Hospital Colorado, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Todd A Florin
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
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19
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Kornblith AE, Singh C, Devlin G, Addo N, Streck CJ, Holmes JF, Kuppermann N, Grupp-Phelan J, Fineman J, Butte AJ, Yu B. Predictability and stability testing to assess clinical decision instrument performance for children after blunt torso trauma. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2022; 1:e0000076. [PMID: 36812570 PMCID: PMC9931266 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN) has developed a clinical-decision instrument (CDI) to identify children at very low risk of intra-abdominal injury. However, the CDI has not been externally validated. We sought to vet the PECARN CDI with the Predictability Computability Stability (PCS) data science framework, potentially increasing its chance of a successful external validation. MATERIALS & METHODS We performed a secondary analysis of two prospectively collected datasets: PECARN (12,044 children from 20 emergency departments) and an independent external validation dataset from the Pediatric Surgical Research Collaborative (PedSRC; 2,188 children from 14 emergency departments). We used PCS to reanalyze the original PECARN CDI along with new interpretable PCS CDIs developed using the PECARN dataset. External validation was then measured on the PedSRC dataset. RESULTS Three predictor variables (abdominal wall trauma, Glasgow Coma Scale Score <14, and abdominal tenderness) were found to be stable. A CDI using only these three variables would achieve lower sensitivity than the original PECARN CDI with seven variables on internal PECARN validation but achieve the same performance on external PedSRC validation (sensitivity 96.8% and specificity 44%). Using only these variables, we developed a PCS CDI which had a lower sensitivity than the original PECARN CDI on internal PECARN validation but performed the same on external PedSRC validation (sensitivity 96.8% and specificity 44%). CONCLUSION The PCS data science framework vetted the PECARN CDI and its constituent predictor variables prior to external validation. We found that the 3 stable predictor variables represented all of the PECARN CDI's predictive performance on independent external validation. The PCS framework offers a less resource-intensive method than prospective validation to vet CDIs before external validation. We also found that the PECARN CDI will generalize well to new populations and should be prospectively externally validated. The PCS framework offers a potential strategy to increase the chance of a successful (costly) prospective validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron E. Kornblith
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Chandan Singh
- Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, United States of America
| | - Gabriel Devlin
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Newton Addo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Christian J. Streck
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Children’s Hospital, Charleston, United States of America
| | - James F. Holmes
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, United States of America
| | - Nathan Kuppermann
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, Davis, United States of America
| | - Jacqueline Grupp-Phelan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey Fineman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Atul J. Butte
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Bin Yu
- Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, United States of America
- Departments of Statistics, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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20
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Chardavoyne PC, Montgomery EJ, Montalbano A, Olympia RP. Pediatric Urgent Care Center Management of Traumatic Injuries in Infants and Children: Adherence to Evidence-Based Practice Guidelines. Pediatr Emerg Care 2022; 38:e1440-e1445. [PMID: 35904956 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine pediatric urgent care (PUC) clinician adherence to evidence-based practice guidelines in the management of pediatric trauma and to evaluate PUC emergency preparedness for conditions such as severe hemorrhage. METHODS A questionnaire covering acute management of 15 pediatric traumatic injuries, awareness of the Stop the Bleed initiative, and presence of emergency equipment and medications was electronically distributed to members of the Society for Pediatric Urgent Care. Clinician management decisions were evaluated against evidence-based practice guidelines. RESULTS Eighty-three completed questionnaires were returned (25% response rate). Fifty-three physician and 25 advanced practice provider (APP) questionnaires were analyzed. Most respondents were adherent to evidence-based practice guidelines in the following scenarios: cervical spine injury; head injury without neurologic symptoms; blunt abdominal injury; laceration without bleeding, foreign body, or signs of infection; first-degree burn; second-degree burn with less than 10% total body surface area; animal bite with and without probable tenosynovitis; and orthopedic fractures. Fever respondents were adherent in the following scenarios: head injury with altered mental status (adherence: physicians, 64%; APPs, 44%) and laceration with foreign body and persistent hemorrhage (adherence: physicians, 52%; APPs, 41%). Most respondents (56%) were unaware of Stop the Bleed and only 48% reported having a bleeding control kit/tourniquet at their urgent care. CONCLUSIONS Providers in our sample demonstrated adherence with pediatric trauma evidence-based practice guidelines. Increased PUC provider trauma care certification, PUC incorporation of Stop the Bleed education, and PUC presence of equipment and medications would further improve emergency preparedness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Amanda Montalbano
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO
| | - Robert P Olympia
- Departments of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA
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21
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Safely reducing abdominal/pelvic computed tomography imaging in pediatric trauma: a quality improvement initiative. CAN J EMERG MED 2022; 24:535-543. [PMID: 35505179 DOI: 10.1007/s43678-022-00311-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Intra-abdominal injury occurs in less than 15% of pediatric trauma activations but can be life-threatening. Computed tomography (CT) imaging is commonly ordered in pediatric trauma, even when intra-abdominal injury risk is low. We aimed to reduce abdominal/pelvic CT rates in children at very low risk for intra-abdominal injury requiring trauma activation at our pediatric trauma centre. METHODS We implemented a quality improvement initiative using the Model for Improvement in children 0-15.99 years of age who activated a trauma response and were evaluated for intra-abdominal injury. Interventions included clinical decision support, institutional education, and individual audit and feedback. Our primary outcome was abdominal/pelvic CT rate in patients at very low risk for intra-abdominal injury. Balancing measures included CT scans ordered within 24 h of emergency department (ED) assessment and return to ED or hospitalization within 72 h for missed intra-abdominal injury. Statistical process control was used to evaluate rates over time. RESULTS The baseline period (April 1, 2016 - November 30, 2017) included 359 trauma patients with a CT rate of 26.8% (95% CI 20.5-33.8%) in those at low risk for intra-abdominal injury. The intervention period (Dec 1, 2017-Dec 31, 2019) included 445 patients with a CT rate in low-risk patients of 6.8% (95% CI 3.2-12.6%), demonstrating an absolute reduction of 20.0% (95% CI 12.2-27.7%, p < 0.05). Interventions resulted in a significant decrease in abdominal/pelvic CT imaging corresponding with special cause variation. No clinically significant intra-abdominal injuries were missed. CONCLUSIONS This quality improvement initiative reduced abdominal/pelvic CT rates in pediatric trauma patients at low risk for intra-abdominal injury without any missed cases of significant injury. Leveraging standardized decision tools to reduce unnecessary CT imaging can be successfully accomplished without compromising care.
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22
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Chaudhari PP, Rodean J, Spurrier RG, Hall M, Marin JR, Ramgopal S, Alpern ER, Shah SS, Freedman SB, Cohen E, Morse RB, Neuman MI. Epidemiology and management of abdominal injuries in children. Acad Emerg Med 2022; 29:944-953. [PMID: 35373473 DOI: 10.1111/acem.14497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although more guideline-adherent care has been described in pediatric compared to adult trauma centers, we aimed to provide a more detailed characterization of management and resource utilization of children with intra-abdominal injury (IAI) within pediatric centers. Our primary objective was to describe the epidemiology, diagnostic evaluation, and management of children with IAI across U.S. children's hospitals. Our secondary objective was to describe the interhospital variation in surgical management of children with IAI. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of 33 hospitals in the Pediatric Health Information System. We included children aged <18 years evaluated in the emergency department from 2010 to 2019 with IAI, as defined by ICD coding, and who underwent an abdominal computed tomography (CT). Our primary outcome was abdominal surgery. We categorized IAI by organ system and described resource utilization data. We used generalized linear regression to calculate adjusted hospital-level proportions of abdominal surgery, with a random effect for hospital. RESULTS We studied 9265 children with IAI. Median (IQR) age was 9.0 (6.0-13.0) years. Abdominal surgery was performed in 16% (n = 1479) of children, with the lowest proportion of abdominal surgery observed in children aged <5 years. Liver (38.6%) and spleen (32.1%) were the most common organs injured. A total of 3.1% of children with liver injuries and 2.8% with splenic injuries underwent abdominal surgery. Although there was variation in rates of surgery across hospitals (p < 0.001), only three of 33 hospitals had rates that were statistically different from the aggregate mean of 16%. CONCLUSIONS Most children with IAI are managed nonoperatively, and most children's hospitals manage children with IAI similarly. These data can be used to inform future benchmarking efforts across hospitals to assess concordance with guidelines for the management of children with IAI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradip P. Chaudhari
- Division of Emergency and Transport Medicine Children's Hospital Los Angeles and Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California Los Angeles California USA
| | | | - Ryan G. Spurrier
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery Children's Hospital Los Angeles and Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California Los Angeles California USA
| | - Matt Hall
- Children's Hospital Association Lenexa Kansas USA
| | - Jennifer R. Marin
- Departments of Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine, & Radiology University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA
| | - Sriram Ramgopal
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Elizabeth R. Alpern
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Samir S. Shah
- Divisions of Hospital Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati Ohio USA
| | - Stephen B. Freedman
- Sections of Pediatric Emergency Medicine and Gastroenterology, Departments of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Alberta Children's Hospital, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary Calgary Alberta Canada
| | - Eyal Cohen
- Division of Pediatric Medicine and Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children and Department of Pediatrics and Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation The University of Toronto and ICES Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Rustin B. Morse
- Center for Clinical Excellence Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Ohio USA
| | - Mark I. Neuman
- Division of Emergency Medicine Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School Boston Massachusetts USA
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Mehl SC, Cunningham ME, Streck CJ, Pettit R, Huang EY, Santore MT, Tsao K, Falcone RA, Dassinger MS, Haynes JH, Russell RT, Naik-Mathuria BJ, St Peter SD, Mooney D, Upperman J, Blakely ML, Vogel AM. Characteristics and predictors of intensive care unit admission in pediatric blunt abdominal trauma. Pediatr Surg Int 2022; 38:589-597. [PMID: 35124723 PMCID: PMC9087985 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-022-05067-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric trauma patients sustaining blunt abdominal trauma (BAT) with intra-abdominal injury (IAI) are frequently admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). This study was performed to identify predictors for ICU admission following BAT. METHODS Prospective study of children (< 16 years) who presented to 14 Level-One Pediatric Trauma Centers following BAT over a 1-year period. Patients were categorized as ICU or non-ICU patients. Data collected included vitals, physical exam findings, laboratory results, imaging, and traumatic injuries. A multivariable hierarchical logistic regression model was used to identify predictors of ICU admission. Predictive ability of the model was assessed via tenfold cross-validated area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (cvAUC). RESULTS Included were 2,182 children with 21% (n = 463) admitted to the ICU. On univariate analysis, ICU patients were associated with abnormal age-adjusted shock index, increased injury severity scores (ISS), lower Glasgow coma scores (GCS), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and severe solid organ injury (SOI). With multivariable logistic regression, factors associated with ICU admission were severe trauma (ISS > 15), anemia (hematocrit < 30), severe TBI (GCS < 8), cervical spine injury, skull fracture, and severe solid organ injury. The cvAUC for the multivariable model was 0.91 (95% CI 0.88-0.92). CONCLUSION Severe solid organ injury and traumatic brain injury, in association with multisystem trauma, appear to drive ICU admission in pediatric patients with BAT. These results may inform the design of a trauma bay prediction rule to assist in optimizing ICU resource utilization after BAT. STUDY DESIGN Prognosis study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 1
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven C Mehl
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, 6701 Fannin Street #1210, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Megan E Cunningham
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, 6701 Fannin Street #1210, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Christian J Streck
- Medical University of South Carolina Children's Hospital, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Rowland Pettit
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, 6701 Fannin Street #1210, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | | | | | - Kuojen Tsao
- Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Jeffrey H Haynes
- Children's Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | | | - Bindi J Naik-Mathuria
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, 6701 Fannin Street #1210, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Adam M Vogel
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, 6701 Fannin Street #1210, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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Kornblith AE, Addo N, Plasencia M, Shaahinfar A, Lin-Martore M, Sabbineni N, Gold D, Bellman L, Berant R, Bergmann KR, Brenkert TE, Chen A, Constantine E, Deanehan JK, Dessie A, Elkhunovich M, Fischer J, Gravel CA, Kharasch S, Kwan CW, Lam SHF, Neal JT, Pade KH, Rempell R, Shefrin AE, Sivitz A, Snelling PJ, Tessaro MO, White W. Development of a Consensus-Based Definition of Focused Assessment With Sonography for Trauma in Children. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e222922. [PMID: 35302632 PMCID: PMC8933745 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.2922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance The wide variation in the accuracy and reliability of the Focused Assessment With Sonography for Trauma (FAST) and the extended FAST (E-FAST) for children after blunt abdominal trauma reflects user expertise. FAST and E-FAST that are performed by experts tend to be more complete, better quality, and more often clinically valuable. Objective To develop definitions of a complete, high-quality, and accurate interpretation for the FAST and E-FAST in children with injury using an expert, consensus-based modified Delphi technique. Design, Setting, and Participants This consensus-based qualitative study was conducted between May 1 to June 30, 2021. It used a scoping review and iterative Delphi technique and involved 2 rounds of online surveys and a live webinar to achieve consensus among a 26-member panel. This panel consisted of international experts in pediatric emergency point-of-care ultrasonography. Main Outcomes and Measures Definitions of complete, high-quality, and accurate FAST and E-FAST studies for children after injury. Results Of the 29 invited pediatric FAST experts, 26 (15 men [58%]) agreed to participate in the panel. All 26 panelists completed the 2 rounds of surveys, and 24 (92%) participated in the live and asynchronous online discussions. Consensus was reached on FAST and E-FAST study definitions, and the panelists rated these 5 anatomic views as important and appropriate for a complete FAST: right upper-quadrant abdominal view, left upper-quadrant abdominal view, suprapubic views (transverse and sagittal), and subxiphoid cardiac view. For E-FAST, the same FAST anatomic views with the addition of the lung or pneumothorax view were deemed appropriate and important. In addition, the panelists rated a total of 32 landmarks as important for assessing completeness. Similarly, the panelists rated 14 statements on quality and 20 statements on accurate interpretation as appropriate. Conclusions and Relevance This qualitative study generated definitions for complete FAST and E-FAST studies with high image quality and accurate interpretation in children with injury. These definitions are similar to those in adults with injury and may be used for future education, quality assurance, and research. Future research may focus on interpretation of trace volumes of abdominal free fluid and the use of serial FAST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron E. Kornblith
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
| | - Newton Addo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
| | - Monica Plasencia
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley
| | - Ashkon Shaahinfar
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
| | - Margaret Lin-Martore
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
| | - Naina Sabbineni
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
| | - Delia Gold
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Emergency Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Lily Bellman
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Harbor-UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) Medical Center, California Pacific Medical Center, Los Angeles
| | - Ron Berant
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Schneider Children’s Medical Center of Israel, Petah Tikva, Israel
| | - Kelly R. Bergmann
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Children’s Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | - Timothy E. Brenkert
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Aaron Chen
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Erika Constantine
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Hasbro Children’s Hospital, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence
| | - J. Kate Deanehan
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Almaz Dessie
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York
| | - Marsha Elkhunovich
- Division of Emergency and Transport Medicine, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jason Fischer
- Division of Emergency Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cynthia A. Gravel
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sig Kharasch
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
| | - Charisse W. Kwan
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, London Health Sciences Centre Children's Hospital, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Samuel H. F. Lam
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Sutter Medical Center Sacramento, Sacramento, California
| | - Jeffrey T. Neal
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kathyrn H. Pade
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rady Children’s Hospital, University of California, San Diego, San Diego
| | - Rachel Rempell
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Allan E. Shefrin
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adam Sivitz
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Children’s Hospital of New Jersey, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Newark
| | - Peter J. Snelling
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Gold Coast University Hospital, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mark O. Tessaro
- Division of Emergency Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - William White
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Harbor-UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) Medical Center, California Pacific Medical Center, Los Angeles
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Can we reduce CT scan and hospital costs in children with blunt trauma using four parameters? ANNALS OF PEDIATRIC SURGERY 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43159-021-00142-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Blunt trauma is one of the most common causes of admission to the emergency service in childhood. Children with trauma are generally evaluated in emergency services where pediatric and adult patients are together, and difficulties are experienced in managing children exposed to trauma. CT is preferred for quick detection and grading of toracoabdominal, skeleton, and neurological injury in high energy trauma. The present study aims to determine the severity of trauma and whether CT exposure can be reduced and patient cost using four parameters.
This study was conducted with 586 pediatric patients exposed to blunt abdominal trauma. The clinical prediction rule consisted of four parameters, including abdominal pain, physical examination findings, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and chest x-ray (CXR, which was used to predict intraabdominal injury in patients with blunt trauma. Patients with no parameters of the clinical decision rule were considered very low risk, and those with one or more parameters were considered at risk. The hospital cost of the patients with and without clinical decision rule was calculated and compared.
Results
In our study, according to the four-variable clinical prediction rule, 88.1% of the patients had a very low risk of intraabdominal injury and 11.9% of them were at risk. The sensitivity was 97.3%, specificity 98.2%, and accuracy was 97.4% in very low-risk patients with four variables clinical prediction rule. In the very low-risk patients, the abnormal CT rate was 0.3% and conservative treatment was performed. With the use of four variables, 0.17% of solid organ injuries may be overlooked. In the risk of patients, 2.9% of these patients were abnormal CT findings, while tube thoracostomy was performed in four patients with pneumothorax, conservative treatment was performed in other patients.
It was determined that routine computed tomography scan increased the patient cost by 5.5 times.
Conclusion
Patients exposed to blunt trauma with a very low risk of intra-abdominal injury can be identified with a four-variable clinical prediction rule. According to the four-variable clinical prediction rule, very low-risk patients do not require immediate CT. The hospital costs can be reduced by reducing the CT scan. However, it should be kept in mind that a small proportion of intra-abdominal injuries may be overlooked.
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Sigal AP, Deaner T, Woods S, Mannarelli E, Muller AL, Martin A, Schoener A, Brower M, Ong A, Geng T, Guillen F, Lahmann B, Wasser T, Valente C. External validation of a pediatric decision rule for blunt abdominal trauma. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open 2022; 3:e12623. [PMID: 35072160 PMCID: PMC8760953 DOI: 10.1002/emp2.12623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Blunt traumatic injuries are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the pediatric population. Contrast-enhanced multidetector computed tomography is the best imaging tool for screening patients at risk of blunt abdominal injury. The Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN) abdominal rule was derived to identify patients at low risk for significant abdominal injury who do not require imaging. METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of pediatric patients with blunt trauma to validate the PECARN rule in a non-pediatric specialized hospital from February 3, 2013, through December 31, 2019. We excluded those with penetrating or mild isolated head injury. The PECARN decision rule was retrospectively applied for the presence of a therapeutic intervention, defined as a laparotomy, angiographic embolization, blood transfusion, or administration of intravenous fluids for pancreatic or gastrointestinal injury. Sensitivity and specificity analysis were conducted along with the negative and positive predictive values. RESULTS A total of 794 patients were included in the final analysis; 23 patients met the primary outcome for an acute intervention. The PECARN clinical decision rule (CDR) had a sensitivity of 91.3%, a negative predictive value of 99.5, and a negative likelihood ration of 0.16. CONCLUSION In a non-pediatric specialty hospital, the PECARN blunt abdominal CDR performed with comparable sensitivity and negative predictive value to the derivation and external validation study performed at specialized children's hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam P. Sigal
- Department of Emergency MedicineReading HospitalWest ReadingPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Traci Deaner
- Department of Emergency MedicineReading HospitalWest ReadingPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Sam Woods
- Department of Emergency MedicineReading HospitalWest ReadingPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | | - Alison L. Muller
- Department of SurgerySection of Trauma and Critical CareReading HospitalWest ReadingPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Anthony Martin
- Department of SurgerySection of Trauma and Critical CareReading HospitalWest ReadingPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | | | | - Adrian Ong
- Department of SurgerySection of Trauma and Critical CareReading HospitalWest ReadingPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Thomas Geng
- Department of SurgerySection of Trauma and Critical CareReading HospitalWest ReadingPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Felipe Guillen
- Drexel University College of MedicinePhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Brian Lahmann
- Department of Emergency MedicineReading HospitalWest ReadingPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Tom Wasser
- Department of Emergency MedicineReading HospitalWest ReadingPennsylvaniaUSA
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Long MK, Vohra MK, Bonnette A, Parra PDV, Miller SK, Ayub E, Wang HE, Cardenas‐Turanzas M, Gordon R, Ugalde IT, Allukian M, Smith HE. Focused assessment with sonography for trauma in predicting early surgical intervention in hemodynamically unstable children with blunt abdominal trauma. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open 2022; 3:e12650. [PMID: 35128532 PMCID: PMC8795205 DOI: 10.1002/emp2.12650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The predictive accuracy and clinical role of the focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) exam in pediatric blunt abdominal trauma are uncertain. This study investigates the performance of the emergency department (ED) FAST exam to predict early surgical intervention and subsequent free fluid (FF) in pediatric trauma patients. METHODS Pediatric level 1 trauma patients ages 0 to 15 years with blunt torso trauma at a single trauma center were retrospectively reviewed. After stratification by initial hemodynamic (HD) instability, the association of a positive FAST with (1) early surgical intervention, defined as operative management (laparotomy or open pericardial window) or angiography within 4 hours of ED arrival and (2) presence of FF during early surgical intervention was determined. RESULTS Among 508 salvageable pediatric trauma patients with an interpreted FAST exam, 35 (6.9%) had HD instability and 98 (19.3%) were FAST positive. A total of 42 of 508 (8.3%) patients required early surgical intervention, and the sensitivity and specificity of FAST predicting early surgical intervention were 59.5% and 84.3%, respectively. The specificity and positive predictive value of FF during early surgical intervention in FAST-positive HD unstable patients increased from 50% and 90.9% at 4 hours after ED arrival to 100% and 100% at 2 hours after ED arrival, respectively. CONCLUSIONS In this large series of injured children, a positive FAST exam improves the ability to predict the need for early surgical intervention, and accuracy is greater for FF in HD unstable patients 2 hours after arrival to the ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan K. Long
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical SchoolHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Mohammed K. Vohra
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical SchoolHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Austin Bonnette
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical SchoolHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Pablo D. Vega Parra
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical SchoolHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Sara K. Miller
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical SchoolHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Emily Ayub
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical SchoolHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Henry E. Wang
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical SchoolHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Marylou Cardenas‐Turanzas
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical SchoolHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Richard Gordon
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical SchoolHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Irma T. Ugalde
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical SchoolHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Myron Allukian
- Department of PediatricsChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Hannah E. Smith
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical SchoolHoustonTexasUSA
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Ozcan A, Ahn T, Akay B, Menoch M. Imaging for Pediatric Blunt Abdominal Trauma With Different Prediction Rules: Is the Outcome the Same? Pediatr Emerg Care 2022; 38:e654-e658. [PMID: 33616315 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Computerized tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis is the standard imaging modality to diagnose intra-abdominal injury (IAI). Clinicians must weigh the risk-benefit of CT compared with the degree of clinical suspicion for an IAI. Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN), Streck, and blunt abdominal trauma in children (BATiC) prediction rules have been published to help guide evaluation of these patients. Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network uses history and physical examination findings, whereas Streck and BATiC use examination plus laboratory and imaging findings. At the time of the study, there was not a protocol that was more routinely sited. Our goal was to compare these different prediction rules. METHODS This was a retrospective electronic chart review of all children younger than 18 years presenting for either level 1 or 2 trauma activations at our pediatric emergency department (ED) between June 1, 2015, to June 30, 2017. Charts were manually reviewed for a mechanism concerning for abdominal trauma, and demographic data, history and physical examination findings, laboratory and imaging results per prediction rules, and revisits in 7 days were collected.The prediction rules were applied to all charts that had all data necessary. For study purposes, a score of zero for PECARN and Streck, and score of ≤5 for modified BATiC (mBATiC) were defined as "low risk." Patients with no CT, negative CT, and no new injury found on revisit were classified as "no IAI identified," and patients with positive CT or revisit with injury found as "IAI identified." The results were compared via Fisher exact test. RESULTS A total of 249 patients met the inclusion criteria with a median age of 12 years. Of the low-risk patients, 119 (98.7%) of 121 in PECARN group, 21 (100%) of 21 in Streck, and 48 (85.7%) of 56 in mBATiC group had no IAI identified. None of the low-risk patients required any intra-abdominal intervention. No missed IAI was identified during revisit review. Negative predictive values of all 3 rules were significant for PECARN, Streck, and mBATiC (98.35%, 100%, and 85.71%, respectively). Overall, 27 patients had positive CT results for IAI. CONCLUSIONS The PECARN and Streck rules have high negative predictive values to predict low-risk patients who do not require CT. When laboratory studies are not obtained, PECARN is an effective means of excluding IAI for low-risk patients. When laboratory tests were obtained, the Streck rule performed well. Overall, the results are similar to the past individual studies done on each individual rule. History and physical examination findings are of high importance in pediatric trauma. This study supports limited imaging when no abnormal findings are present in children with blunt torso trauma. This is the only study found in the literature that has compared 3 different prediction rules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Ozcan
- From the Pediatric Emergency Department, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA
| | - Terrie Ahn
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology Department, UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Margaret Menoch
- Pediatric Emergency Department,William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI
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Prospective evaluation of an evidence-based decision tool to assess pediatric blunt abdominal trauma (BAT). Pediatr Surg Int 2022; 38:183-191. [PMID: 34586483 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-021-05013-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Computed tomography (CT) is currently the standard for evaluation of intra-abdominal injury (IAI) after BAT. Pediatric patients receiving CT scans based on adult clinical protocols are potentially exposed to unnecessary radiation. The purpose of this study is to determine the rate of CT scans before and after implementation of a pediatric BAT decision tool. METHODS We adapted and implemented an evidence-based decision tool for pediatric BAT based on five clinical variables. We reviewed patient charts 18 months pre- and post-implementation. Demographics and outcomes were compared using Chi-square and Fisher's exact test, accordingly. RESULTS The pre and post-implementation groups were uniform when comparing age, sex, mechanism, and Injury Severity Score. The decision tool was utilized in 85% of patients post-implementation. Fewer CT scans were obtained in the post-implementation group (28 vs. 21%, p = 0.215) with no missed injuries or late diagnoses. CONCLUSION Implementation of a pediatric BAT decision tool decreased CT usage and radiation exposure without an obvious compromise to patient care. This experience supports the utilization of these tools for the assessment of IAI after BAT and have resulted in more selective use of CT during pediatric BAT in our program.
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PERIN ISABELLA, GUETTER CAMILAROGINSKI, KLÜPPEL LÚCIOEDUARDO, FACHIN CAMILAGIRARDI, PIMENTEL SILVANIAKLUG. Tomografia computadorizada na avaliação do trauma abdominal pediátrico. Rev Col Bras Cir 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/0100-6991e-20223246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Introdução: avaliar a necessidade da tomografia computadorizada (TC) para definição de condutas em trauma abdominal pediátrico. Métodos: estudo observacional retrospectivo com pacientes menores de 18 anos vítimas de trauma abdominal contuso ou penetrante e que realizaram TC de abdome e pelve na admissão. Avaliou-se achados das tomografias, condutas e justificativas para indicação da TC. Foram calculados sensibilidade, especificidade, valor preditivo positivo e valor preditivo negativo de fatores clínicos e energia do trauma para alterações na TC. Resultados: dentre os 236 pacientes incluídos, 72% (n=170) não apresentaram alterações na TC. Foi realizado tratamento cirúrgico em 15% (n=10), tratamento conservador em 54,5% (n=36) e 27% (n=18) não receberam tratamento por lesões abdominais. Na avaliação das indicações de TC, 28,8% (n=68) não apresentavam nenhuma justificativa, sendo que nesse grupo 91% (n=62) resultaram em ausência de achados. Dentre os seis pacientes com achados positivos, metade recebeu tratamento conservador, enquanto o restante não necessitou de tratamento por lesões abdominais. A presença de dor abdominal, alteração hemodinâmica e trauma contuso de alta energia apresentaram baixos valores preditivos positivos de forma isolada, enquanto os valores preditivos negativos foram mais altos. Conclusão: apesar de a TC ser necessária e justificável em alguns casos, há um possível excesso de tomografias dispensáveis para definição de condutas em população pediátrica.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - CAMILA ROGINSKI GUETTER
- Universidade Federal do Paraná, Brazil; Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Estados Unidos
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Wiitala EL, Parker JL, Jones JS, Benner CA. Comparison of Computed Tomography Use and Mortality in Severe Pediatric Blunt Trauma at Pediatric Level I Trauma Centers Versus Adult Level 1 and 2 or Pediatric Level 2 Trauma Centers. Pediatr Emerg Care 2022; 38:e138-e142. [PMID: 32658115 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Computed tomography (CT) is the criterion standard for identifying blunt trauma injuries in pediatric patients, but there are long-term risks of CT exposure. In pediatric blunt trauma, multiple studies have shown that increased CT usage does not necessarily equate to improvements in mortality. The aim of this study was to compare CT usage between level 1 pediatric trauma centers versus level 2 pediatric centers and adult level 1 and 2 centers. METHODS We performed a retrospective, multicenter analysis of National Trauma Data Bank patient records from the single admission year of 2015. Eligible subjects were defined as younger than 18 years with abdominal or thoracic blunt trauma, had an Injury Severity Scale score of greater than 15, and were treated at a level 1 or 2 trauma center. Data were then compared between children treated at level 1 pediatric trauma centers (PTC group) versus level 2 PTCs or adult level 1/2 trauma centers (ATC group). The primary outcomes measured were rates of head, thoracic, abdominal CT, and mortality. Data from ATC and PTC groups were propensity matched for age, sex, race, and Glasgow Coma Scale. RESULTS There were 6242 patients after exclusion criteria. Because of differences in patient demographics, we propensity matched 2 groups of 1395 patients. Of these patients, 39.6% of PTC patients received abdominal CT versus 45.5% of ATC patients (P = 0.0017). Similarly, 21.9% of PTC patients received thoracic CT versus 34.7% of ATC patients (P < 0.0001). There was no difference in head CT usage between PTC and ATC groups (P = 1.0000). There was no significant difference in mortality between patients treated in the PTC versus ATC groups (P = 0.1198). CONCLUSIONS Among children with severe blunt trauma, patients treated at level 1 PTCs were less likely to receive thoracic and abdominal CTs than those treated at level 2 pediatric or adult trauma level 1/2 centers, with no significant differences in mortality. These findings support the use of selective imaging in severe blunt pediatric trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen L Wiitala
- From the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
| | | | - Jeffrey S Jones
- From the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
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Badru F, Osei H, Munoz-Abraham AS, Saxena S, Breeden R, Piening N, Starr D, Xu P, Greenspon J, Fitzpatrick CM, Villalona GA, Chatoorgoon K. Screening Laboratory Testing in Asymptomatic Minor Pediatric Blunt Trauma Leads to Unnecessary Needle Sticks. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e821-e824. [PMID: 30973496 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Screening blood work after minor injuries is common in pediatric trauma. The risk of missed injuries versus diagnostic necessity in an asymptomatic patient remains an ongoing debate. We evaluated the clinical utility of screening blood work in carefully selected asymptomatic children after minor trauma. METHODS Patients seen at a level 1 pediatric center with "minor trauma" for blunt trauma between 2010 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Exclusion criteria were age <4 of >18 years, a Glasgow Coma Scale score of <15, penetrating trauma, nonaccidental trauma, hemodynamic instability, abdominal findings (pain, distension, bruising, tenderness), hematuria, pelvic/femur fracture, multiple fractures, and operative intervention. Data abstraction included demographics, blood work, interventions, and disposition. RESULT A total of 1308 patients were treated during the study period. Four hundred thirty-three (33%) met inclusion criteria. Mean ± SD age was 12.7 ± 4 years (range, 4-18 years), and 59% were male. Seventy-eight percent were discharged home from the emergency department. All patients had blood work. Twenty-eight percent had at least one abnormal laboratory value. The most common abnormal blood work was leukocytosis (16%). Thirty percent had an intervention, and none prompted by abnormal blood work. One patient had an intra-abdominal finding (psoas hematoma). CONCLUSION When appropriately selected, screening laboratory testing in asymptomatic minor pediatric blunt trauma patients leads to unnecessary needle sticks without significant advantage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Perry Xu
- Saint Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis
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Ohana-Sarna-Cahan L, Levin Y, Gross I, Hassidim A, Yuval JB, Hess A, Bala M, Hashavya S. Microhematuria as an Indicator of Significant Abdominal Injury. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e1020-e1025. [PMID: 31283723 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Trauma is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the pediatric population. In many centers, microhematuria is used as a screening tool for the presence of significant abdominal injury and as an indication for further imaging. Our objective was to evaluate the role of microhematuria by dipstick as an indicator of significant abdominal injury in children. METHODS A retrospective review of children aged 0 to 16 years admitted for a motor vehicle accident or a fall from 2007 to 2017 who had urinalyses performed. RESULTS The charts of 655 children were reviewed. Microhematuria was found in 100 children, of whom 49 (49%), 28 (28%), and 23 (23%) had small, moderate, and large amounts of hematuria, respectively. Of the children who had microhematuria, 41 underwent a computed tomography scan. Positive findings were recorded in 16 (39%) of these patients. There was a clear association between microhematuria as detected by the urine dipstick and a significant finding on the computed tomography scan (P = 0.002). The sensitivity of microhematuria for significant abdominal pathology on imaging was 66.6% and the specificity was 68.3% (positive predictive value, 39%; negative predictive value, 87.1%). Microhematuria was associated with increased length of stay in the hospital (P < 0.001), surgical interventions (P = 0.036), and admission to the pediatric intensive care unit (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The diagnostic role of dipstick urine analysis in the assessment of intra-abdominal injury has low sensitivity and specificity. Nevertheless, it is still a valuable screening tool for the evaluation of the severity of injury.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Itai Gross
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine
| | | | | | - Amit Hess
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine
| | - Miklosh Bala
- Department of General Surgery, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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Edwards MJ, Jenkel T, Weller B, Weber A, Zhu K, Parikh R, Ata A, Danziger C. Computed Tomography Scan Utilization in Pediatric Trauma: Impact on Length of Stay and Incidence of False Positive Findings. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e1478-e1481. [PMID: 32205803 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Computerized tomography (CT) scans are the mainstay of diagnostic imaging in blunt trauma. Particularly in pediatric trauma, utilization of CT scans has increased exponentially in recent years. Concerns regarding radiation exposure to this vulnerable population have resulted in increased scrutiny of practice. What is not known is if liberal imaging practices decrease length of stay by eliminating the need for clinical observation, and the impact of false-positive rates from liberal use of CT scanning on clinical outcomes. METHODS Medical records from a nonaccredited pediatric trauma center with a practice of liberal imaging were reviewed over a 2-year period. Total CT scans obtained were recorded, in addition to length of stay, age, and Injury Severity Score (ISS). Rates of clinically significant imaging findings were recorded, as were false positive findings and complications of imaging. RESULTS Out of 735 children, 58% underwent CT scanning, and if scanned, received an average of 2.4 studies. Clinically significant findings were documented in 20% of head CTs, 2% of cervical spine CTs, 3.5% of chest CTs, 24% of facial CTs, and 14.7% of abdominal CTs. False-positive findings were found in 1.5% of head CTs, 1.2% of cervical spine CTs, 2.4% of chest CTs, and 2.5% of abdominal CTs. Liberal CT scanning was not associated with decreased length of stay. In contrast, obtaining CT scans on more than 4 body regions was independently predictive of longer length of stay, independent of ISS. CONCLUSIONS False-positive rates of CT scans for trauma were low in this cohort. However, when scanning the cervical spine or the chest, for every 2 clinically significant findings obtained, there was at least one false positive result, calling into question the practice of liberal imaging of these regions. Liberal utilization of CT scan did not allow for more rapid discharge home, and for more than 4 CTs was independently associated with longer hospital stay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary J Edwards
- From the Department of Surgery, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY
| | | | | | - Alexis Weber
- From the Department of Surgery, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY
| | | | | | - Ashar Ata
- From the Department of Surgery, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY
| | - Carrie Danziger
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY
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Abstract
ABSTRACT Blunt abdominal trauma (BAT) accounts for most trauma in children. Although the focused assessment with sonography in trauma (FAST) is considered standard of care in the evaluation of adults with traumatic injuries, there is limited evidence to support its use as an isolated evaluation tool for intra-abdominal injury as a result of BAT in children. Although a positive FAST examination could obviate the need for a computed tomography scan before OR evaluation in a hemodynamically unstable patient, a negative FAST examination cannot exclude intra-abdominal injury as a result of BAT in isolation. In this article, we review the evaluation of BAT in children, describe the evaluation for free intraperitoneal fluid and pericardial fluid using the FAST examination, and discuss the limitations of the FAST examination in pediatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marci J Fornari
- From the Clinical Instructor and Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellow
| | - Simone L Lawson
- Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Children's National Hospital, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC
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Riera A, Hayward H, Torres Silva C, Chen L. Reevaluation of FAST Sensitivity in Pediatric Blunt Abdominal Trauma Patients: Should We Redefine the Qualitative Threshold for Significant Hemoperitoneum? Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e1012-e1019. [PMID: 31356479 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The utility of the focused assessment with sonography in trauma (FAST) examination in hemodynamically stable pediatric blunt abdominal trauma (BAT) patients is controversial.We report our 3-year experience with FAST performance to detect greater than physiologic amounts of intraperitoneal fluid after BAT. METHODS We performed a retrospective chart review of all FAST examinations performed from July 2015 to June 2018 at a level I pediatric trauma center. The main outcome of interest was the performance of a concerning FAST (cFAST) compared with a computed tomography scan diagnosis for greater than physiologic levels of free fluid (FF) and clinical follow-up. A cFAST was defined by the presence of any FF in the upper abdomen or by a moderate to large amount of FF present in the pelvis. The interobserver reliability of cFASTwas assessed with Cohen κ coefficient. Locations of FF were assessed. RESULTS A total of 448 FAST cases were eligible for review. The median age was 11 years with 64% male. Thirty-one FAST examinations (6.9%) were positive for some amount of FF; 18 (4.0%) were cFASTs. In the cFAST group, 11 patients (61%) were hemodynamically stable. The cFAST had a sensitivity of 89% (95% confidence interval [CI], 65%-99%), specificity of 99% (95% CI, 98%-100%), positive predictive value of 89% (95% CI, 67%-97%), and negative predictive value of 99% (95% CI, 98%-100%). The positive and negative likelihood ratios were 191 (95% CI, 47-769) and 0.11 (95% CI, 0.03-0.41). The κ coefficient for cFASTwas 0.72 with 86% agreement. Free fluid on cFAST cases was observed in the pelvis (78%), right upper quadrant (44%), and left upper quadrant (44%). CONCLUSIONS In pediatric BAT patients, a cFAST has acceptable sensitivity and remains a highly specific test to rule in greater than physiologic quantities of FF with confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Riera
- From the Section of Pediatric EmergencyMedicine, Department of Pediatrics
| | | | - Cicero Torres Silva
- Section of Pediatric Radiology, Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Lei Chen
- From the Section of Pediatric EmergencyMedicine, Department of Pediatrics
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Greenberg JK, Ahluwalia R, Hill M, Johnson G, Hale AT, Belal A, Baygani S, Olsen MA, Foraker RE, Carpenter CR, Yan Y, Ackerman L, Noje C, Jackson E, Burns E, Sayama CM, Selden NR, Vachhrajani S, Shannon CN, Kuppermann N, Limbrick DD. Development and external validation of the KIIDS-TBI tool for managing children with mild traumatic brain injury and intracranial injuries. Acad Emerg Med 2021; 28:1409-1420. [PMID: 34245632 DOI: 10.1111/acem.14333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical decision support (CDS) may improve the postneuroimaging management of children with mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) and intracranial injuries. While the CHIIDA score has been proposed for this purpose, a more sensitive risk model may have broader use. Consequently, this study's objectives were to: (1) develop a new risk model with improved sensitivity compared to the CHIIDA model and (2) externally validate the new model and CHIIDA model in a multicenter data set. METHODS We analyzed children ≤18 years old with mTBI and intracranial injuries included in the PECARN head injury data set (2004-2006). We used binary recursive partitioning to predict the composite outcome of neurosurgical intervention, intubation for > 24 h due to TBI, or death due to TBI. The new model was externally validated in a separate data set that included children treated at any one of six centers from 2006 to 2019. RESULTS Based on 839 patients from the PECARN data set, a new risk model, the KIIDS-TBI model, was developed that incorporated imaging (e.g., midline shift) and clinical (e.g., Glasgow Coma Scale score) findings. Based on the model-predicted probability of the composite outcome, three cutoffs were evaluated to classify patients as "high risk" for level of care decisions. In the external validation data set consisting of 1,630 patients, the most conservative cutoff (i.e., any predictor present) identified 119 of 119 children with the composite outcome (sensitivity = 100%), but had the lowest specificity (26.3%). The other two decision-making cutoffs had worse sensitivity (94.1%-96.6%) but improved specificity (67.4%-81.3%). The CHIIDA model lacked the most conservative cutoff and otherwise showed the same or slightly worse performance compared to the other two cutoffs. CONCLUSIONS The KIIDS-TBI model has high sensitivity and moderate specificity for risk stratifying children with mTBI and intracranial injuries. Use of this CDS tool may help improve the safe, resource-efficient management of this important patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob K. Greenberg
- Department of Neurological Surgery Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis St. Louis MO USA
| | - Ranbir Ahluwalia
- Department of Neurological Surgery Vanderbilt University Medical Center Nashville TN USA
| | - Madelyn Hill
- Department of Neurological Surgery Dayton Children’s Hospital Dayton OH USA
| | - Gabbie Johnson
- Department of Neurological Surgery Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis St. Louis MO USA
| | - Andrew T. Hale
- Department of Neurological Surgery Vanderbilt University Medical Center Nashville TN USA
| | - Ahmed Belal
- Department of Neurological Surgery Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis IN USA
| | - Shawyon Baygani
- Department of Neurological Surgery Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis IN USA
| | - Margaret A. Olsen
- Department of Medicine Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis St. Louis MO USA
| | - Randi E. Foraker
- Department of Medicine Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis St. Louis MO USA
| | - Christopher R. Carpenter
- Department of Emergency Medicine Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis St. Louis MO USA
| | - Yan Yan
- Department of Surgery Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis St. Louis MO USA
| | - Laurie Ackerman
- Department of Neurological Surgery Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis IN USA
| | - Corina Noje
- Department of Anesthesiology Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Baltimore MD USA
| | - Eric Jackson
- Department of Neurological Surgery Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Baltimore MD USA
| | - Erin Burns
- Department of Pediatrics Oregon Health and Science University Portland OR USA
| | - Christina M. Sayama
- Department of Neurological Surgery Oregon Health and Science University Portland OR USA
| | - Nathan R. Selden
- Department of Neurological Surgery Oregon Health and Science University Portland OR USA
| | | | - Chevis N. Shannon
- Department of Neurological Surgery Vanderbilt University Medical Center Nashville TN USA
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine University of California Davis Davis CA USA
| | - Nathan Kuppermann
- Department of Emergency Medicine University of California–Davis Davis CA USA
| | - David D. Limbrick
- Department of Neurological Surgery Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis St. Louis MO USA
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Swaffield TP, Olympia RP. School Nurses on the Front Lines of Healthcare: Emergencies Associated With Sport and Physical Activities (Part 2): Sudden Cardiac Arrest, Hypovolemic Shock, and Spinal Cord Injury. NASN Sch Nurse 2021; 37:141-146. [PMID: 34743625 DOI: 10.1177/1942602x211046048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Sport participation is an important part of the development, both physically and mentally, of children and adolescents in the United States. Illness and injury associated with sport and physical activities may occur in the school setting. Although most sport-related illness and injury in students are considered minor emergencies, life-threatening illnesses or injuries may occur. It is important for the school nurse to recognize potential life-threatening emergencies associated with sport and physical activity, to initiate stabilization of the student with life-threatening symptoms, and to triage these students to an appropriate level of care (back to the classroom, home with their guardian with follow up at their primary healthcare provider's office, or directly to the closest emergency department via Emergency Medical Services). This article specifically describes the initial assessment and management of three potentially life-threatening conditions associated with sport and physical activity, namely sudden cardiac arrest, hypovolemic shock, and spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas P Swaffield
- General Pediatrics Resident Physician Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital Hershey, PA
| | - Robert P Olympia
- Professor, Departments of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Attending Pediatric Emergency Medicine Physician, Penn State Hershey Medical Center Hershey, PA
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Paltiel HJ, Barth RA, Bruno C, Chen AE, Deganello A, Harkanyi Z, Henry MK, Ključevšek D, Back SJ. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of blunt abdominal trauma in children. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:2253-2269. [PMID: 33978795 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-020-04869-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Trauma is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children, and rapid identification of organ injury is essential for successful treatment. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is an appealing alternative to contrast-enhanced CT in the evaluation of children with blunt abdominal trauma, mainly with respect to the potential reduction of population-level exposure to ionizing radiation. This is particularly important in children, who are more vulnerable to the hazards of ionizing radiation than adults. CEUS is useful in hemodynamically stable children with isolated blunt low- to moderate-energy abdominal trauma to rule out solid organ injuries. It can also be used to further evaluate uncertain contrast-enhanced CT findings, as well as in the follow-up of conservatively managed traumatic injuries. CEUS can be used to detect abnormalities that are not apparent by conventional US, including infarcts, pseudoaneurysms and active bleeding. In this article we present the current experience from the use of CEUS for the evaluation of pediatric blunt abdominal trauma, emphasizing the examination technique and interpretation of major abnormalities associated with injuries in the liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenal glands, pancreas and testes. We also discuss the limitations of the technique and offer a review of the major literature on this topic in children, including an extrapolation of experience from adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriet J Paltiel
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave., Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Richard A Barth
- Department of Radiology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Costanza Bruno
- Department of Radiology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Aaron E Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Zoltan Harkanyi
- Department of Radiology, Heim Pal National Pediatric Institute, Budapest, Hungary
| | - M Katherine Henry
- Safe Place: The Center for Child Protection and Health, Division of General Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Damjana Ključevšek
- Department of Radiology, University Children's Hospital Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Susan J Back
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Full-body MR imaging: a retrospective study on a novel diagnostic approach for children sustaining high-energy trauma. Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg 2021; 48:2165-2172. [PMID: 34279669 PMCID: PMC9192453 DOI: 10.1007/s00068-021-01736-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Severe accidents are the leading cause of long-term impairment and death in children. A common diagnostic procedure for children exposed to high-injury trauma is full-body contrast-enhanced CT (fbCT). However, the number of fbCT without detected injuries is relevant. In 2007, full-body MRI (fbMRI) was implemented as a diagnostic approach for children sustaining high-energy trauma. The aim of this cross-sectional retrospective study was to analyze fbMRI as a diagnostic tool for children after high-energy trauma focusing on feasibility, radiological findings, and limitations. Methods Diagnostics using fbMRI (from apex of the head to the pelvis) was performed if a child was stable and suffered a high-energy trauma in a Level I Trauma Center in Germany. 105 fbMRIs in patients exposed to high-energy trauma aged ≤ 16 years were performed between January 2007 and December 2018. Four fbMRIs were excluded as conducted for reasons other than trauma. Time between arrival in the emergency department and fbMRI, additional diagnostic procedures, injuries, and non-trauma related pathologies were analyzed. Results Mean time between arrival in the emergency department and fbMRI was 71 min (± SD 132 min). Two scans were discontinued and changed to a faster diagnostic procedure. 45% of children had additional X-rays and 11% CT scans. The MRIs showed intracranial abnormalities in 27%, extremities injuries in 26%, spinal injuries in 18%, pelvic, and thoracic injuries in 7% of the cases. Conclusion Overall fbMRI is a diagnostic alternative for hemodynamically stable, conscious children after high-energy trauma with the advantages of a radiation-free technique. However, MRI diagnostics take longer than CT scans. Prospective studies will be needed to identify the limiting factors of fbMRIs as primary diagnostic procedure compared to CT scans. Trial registration German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS; DRKS00017015). Level of evidence Case series, level of evidence V.
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Merianos AL, Gordon JS, Lyons MS, Jandarov RA, Mahabee-Gittens EM. Evaluation of tobacco screening and counseling in a large, midwestern pediatric emergency department. Tob Prev Cessat 2021; 7:39. [PMID: 34056146 PMCID: PMC8145199 DOI: 10.18332/tpc/134751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The study objective was to assess tobacco screening and cessation counseling practices of pediatric emergency department (PED) and urgent care (UC) nurses and physicians, and factors associated with these practices. Secondarily, we assessed factors associated with performing tobacco smoke exposure reduction and tobacco cessation counseling. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 30 PED/UC nurses and physicians working at one large, urban, Midwestern children’s hospital. Measures included current practices of performing the 5 As of tobacco counseling (Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, Arrange), and attitude and practice factors that may influence practices. RESULTS Overall, 90.0% of participants had not received recent tobacco counseling training, 73.3% were unaware of the 5 As, and 63.3% did not have a standardized, routine screening system to identify patients exposed to secondhand smoke. The majority of participants reported that they: asked about patients’ secondhand smoke exposure status (70.0%) and parents’ tobacco use status (53.3%), and advised parental smokers to not smoke around their child (70.0%) and to quit smoking (50%). One in five participants reported they assessed smokers’ interest in quitting smoking, and 16.7% talked with smokers about cessation techniques and tactics; of these, 10% referred/enrolled smokers to the Tobacco Quitline or cessation program, and 6.7% made a quit plan or recommended nicotine replacement therapy medication. CONCLUSIONS Key findings identified are the need for professional tobacco counseling training, standardizing efforts during visits, and emphasizing pediatric patients’ potential health benefits. This information will be used for developing a PED/ UC-based parental tobacco cessation and child tobacco smoke exposure reduction intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley L Merianos
- School of Human Services, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, United States.,Center for Addiction Research, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, United States
| | - Judith S Gordon
- College of Nursing, The University of Arizona, Tucson, United States
| | - Michael S Lyons
- Center for Addiction Research, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, United States.,Department of Emergency Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, United States
| | - Roman A Jandarov
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, United States
| | - E Melinda Mahabee-Gittens
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, United States
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Henry R, Ghafil C, Pott E, Liasidis PK, Golden A, Henry RN, Matsushima K, Clark D, Inaba K, Strumwasser A. Selective Computed Tomography (CT) Imaging is Superior to Liberal CT Imaging in the Hemodynamically Normal Pediatric Blunt Trauma Patient. J Surg Res 2021; 266:284-291. [PMID: 34038850 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2021.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The optimal imaging strategy in hemodynamically stable pediatric blunt trauma remains to be defined. The purpose of this study was to determine the differences between selective and liberal computed tomography (CT) strategy in a pediatric trauma population with respect to radiation exposure and outcomes. METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of hemodynamically stable blunt pediatric trauma patients (≤16 y) who were admitted to a Level I trauma center between 2013-2016. Patients were stratified into selective and liberal imaging cohorts. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to compare outcomes between the groups. Outcomes included radiation dose, hospital and ICU length of stay, complications and mortality. RESULTS Of the 485 patients included, 176 underwent liberal and 309 selective CT imaging. The liberal cohort were more likely to be severely injured (ISS>15: 34.1 versus 8.4%, P< 0.001). The odds of exposure to a radiation dose of >15 mSv were higher with liberal scanning in patients with both ISS > 15 (OR 2.78, 95% CI 1.76-5.19, P< 0.001) and ISS ≤ 15 (OR 3.41, 95% CI 2.19-8.44, P < 0.001). Adjusted outcomes regarding mortality, ICU length of stay, and complications were similar between the cohorts. CONCLUSION Selective CT imaging in hemodynamically stable blunt pediatric trauma patients was associated with reduced radiation exposure and similar outcomes when compared to a liberal CT strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reynold Henry
- Division of Acute Care Surgery, University of Southern California; Los Angeles, CA.
| | - Cameron Ghafil
- Division of Acute Care Surgery, University of Southern California; Los Angeles, CA
| | - Emily Pott
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA
| | | | - Adam Golden
- Division of Acute Care Surgery, University of Southern California; Los Angeles, CA
| | - Rachel N Henry
- Division of Acute Care Surgery, University of Southern California; Los Angeles, CA
| | - Kazuhide Matsushima
- Division of Acute Care Surgery, University of Southern California; Los Angeles, CA
| | - Damon Clark
- Division of Acute Care Surgery, University of Southern California; Los Angeles, CA
| | - Kenji Inaba
- Division of Acute Care Surgery, University of Southern California; Los Angeles, CA
| | - Aaron Strumwasser
- Division of Acute Care Surgery, University of Southern California; Los Angeles, CA
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Ramgopal S, Horvat CM. Machine learning approaches for the identification of children at low risk of intra-abdominal injury requiring intervention. J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2021; 90:e128-e129. [PMID: 32890342 PMCID: PMC7914296 DOI: 10.1097/ta.0000000000002906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sriram Ramgopal
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Christopher M. Horvat
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Division of Health Informatics, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Isolated low-grade solid organ injuries in children following blunt abdominal trauma: Is it time to consider discharge from the emergency department? J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2021; 89:887-893. [PMID: 32769952 DOI: 10.1097/ta.0000000000002899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute intervention (AI) for solid organ injury (SOI) is rare in hemodynamically stable children. Pediatric guidelines recommend admission with follow-up laboratories, even for low-grade injuries. METHODS Data sets from two large multicenter prospective observational studies were used to analyze a cohort of children (age, <17 years) with grade I to III SOI following blunt abdominal trauma. Children with hollow viscus injuries were excluded. Patients were divided into (a) those with or without other major injuries (OMIs) (traumatic brain injury, hemothorax or pneumothorax, pelvic fracture, urgent orthopedic or neurosurgical operations) and (b) with grade I or II versus grade III injuries. Outcomes included AIs (transfusion, angiography, abdominal operation) and disposition (admission unit and length of stay). RESULTS There were 14,232 children enrolled in the two studies, and 791 patients had a SOI (5.6%). After excluding patients with hollow viscus injuries and higher-grade SOIs, 517 patients with a grade I to III SOI were included, and 262 of these had no OMI. Among patients with no OMI, none of 148 patients with grade I or II SOI underwent AI, while only 3 of 114 patients with grade III injuries underwent AI (3 transfusions/1 angioembolization). All three had hemoperitoneum; two of three had an additional organ with a grade II injury. Among grade I and II SOIs with no OMI, 28 (18.9%) of 148 were admitted to an intensive care unit, 110 (74.3%) of 148 to floor, and 7 (4.7%) of 148 discharged home from emergency department; median length of stay 2 days. Among grade III SOIs with no OMI, 38 (33.3%) of 114 were admitted to an intensive care unit and 61.4% to the floor; median length of stay was 4 days. Among 255 patients with a grade I to III SOI and other major organ system injuries, 31 (12.2%) underwent AI. CONCLUSION No patient with a grade I and II SOI and no OMI following blunt abdominal trauma received intervention, suggesting that patients with low-grade SOI without OMIs could be safely observed and discharged from the emergency department. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic study, level IV.
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Gaffley M, Neff LP, Sieren LM, Zeller KA, Pranikoff T, Rush T, Petty JK. Evaluation of an evidence-based guideline to reduce CT use in the assessment of blunt pediatric abdominal trauma. J Pediatr Surg 2021; 56:297-301. [PMID: 32788046 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE About half of pediatric blunt trauma patients undergo an abdominopelvic computed tomographic (CT) scan, while few of these require intervention for an intraabdominal injury. We evaluated the effectiveness of an evidence-based guideline for blunt abdominal trauma at a Level I pediatric trauma center. METHODS Pediatric blunt trauma patients (n = 998) age 0-15 years who presented from the injury scene were evaluated over a 10 year period. After five years, we implemented our guideline in which the decision for CT was standardized based on mental status, abdominal examination, and laboratory results (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, hemoglobin, urinalysis). RESULTS There were no differences in age, GCS, SIPA or ISS scores between the patients before or after guideline implementation. Nearly half of the patients (48.3%) underwent CT scan before guideline implementation compared to 36.7% after (p < 0.0002). There was no difference in ISS (p = 0.44) between CT scanned patients in either group. No statistical differences were found in rate of intervention (p = 0.20), length of stay (p = 0.65), or readmission rate (0.2%) before versus after guideline implementation. There were no missed injuries. CONCLUSION Implementation of an evidence-based clinical guideline for pediatric patients with blunt abdominal trauma decreases the rate of CT utilization while accurately identifying significant injuries. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Gaffley
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, General Surgery, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
| | - Lucas P Neff
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, General Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Leah M Sieren
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, General Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Kristen A Zeller
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, General Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Thomas Pranikoff
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, General Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Tammy Rush
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, General Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - John K Petty
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, General Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
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Liang T, Roseman E, Gao M, Sinert R. The Utility of the Focused Assessment With Sonography in Trauma Examination in Pediatric Blunt Abdominal Trauma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:108-118. [PMID: 30870341 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the utility of the Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) examination for diagnosis of intra-abdominal injury (IAI) in children presenting with blunt abdominal trauma. METHODS We searched medical literature from January 1966 to March 2018 in PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Prospective studies of POCUS FAST examinations in diagnosing IAI in pediatric trauma were included. Sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios (LR) were calculated using a random-effects model (95% confidence interval). Study quality and bias risk were assessed, and test-treatment threshold estimates were performed. RESULTS Eight prospective studies were included encompassing 2135 patients with a weighted prevalence of IAI of 13.5%. Studies had variable quality, with most at risk for partial and differential verification bias. The results from POCUS FAST examinations for IAI showed a pooled sensitivity of 35%, specificity of 96%, LR+ of 10.84, and LR- of 0.64. A positive POCUS FAST posttest probability for IAI (63%) exceeds the upper limit (57%) of our test-treatment threshold model for computed tomography of the abdomen with contrast. A negative POCUS FAST posttest probability for IAI (9%) does not cross the lower limit (0.23%) of our test-treatment threshold model. CONCLUSIONS In a hemodynamically stable child presenting with blunt abdominal trauma, a positive POCUS FAST examination result means that IAI is likely, but a negative examination result alone cannot preclude further diagnostic workup for IAI. The need for computed tomography scan may be obviated in a subset of low-risk pediatric blunt abdominal trauma patients presenting with a Glasgow Coma Scale of 14 to 15, a normal abdominal examination result, and a negative POCUS FAST result.
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Linakis SW, Lloyd JK, Kline D, Holmes JF, Stanley RM, Leonard JC. Field triage of children with abdominal trauma. TRAUMA-ENGLAND 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/1460408620933524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Objective Identify physical findings in children with abdominal trauma to inform prehospital providers regarding appropriate hospital destinations. Methods This is a secondary analysis of the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network Abdominal Trauma Public Use Dataset. Children involved in motor vehicle collisions; struck by motor vehicles at >20 mph; involved in all-terrain vehicle, motorcycle, or scooter accidents; or who fell from >10 ft ( n = 5575) were included. Stepwise multivariable multinomial logistic regression was used to compare clinical findings at presentation between children with no intra-abdominal injury, intra-abdominal injury without intervention, and intra-abdominal injury with intervention (laparoscopy/laparotomy, embolization, red blood cell transfusion, or admission >48 h on intravenous fluids). Results Compared to children with no intra-abdominal injury, children with intra-abdominal injury (with and without intervention) were more likely to have evidence of abdominal wall trauma, abdominal tenderness, peritoneal irritation, decreased breath sounds, distracting painful injury, and evidence of thoracic trauma. Children with intra-abdominal injury requiring intervention were more likely to have evidence of abdominal wall trauma (OR 3.32, 95% CI 2.03–5.44) and be intubated (OR 4.93, 95% CI 3.17–7.65) when compared to children with intra-abdominal injury without intervention. Conclusions The findings of abdominal tenderness, peritoneal irritation, decreased breath sounds, distracting painful injury, and thoracic trauma may be used to identify children who warrant evaluation at any trauma center because of increased risk of intra-abdominal injury, whereas intubation and evidence of abdominal wall trauma help identify children with intra-abdominal injury in need of transport to a pediatric trauma center due to risk of undergoing intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth W Linakis
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Julia K Lloyd
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - David Kline
- Center for Biostatistics, Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - James F Holmes
- Department of Emergency Medicine, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Rachel M Stanley
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Julie C Leonard
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
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Abela N, Herrieven E. Fifteen-minute consultation: Imaging in paediatric major trauma. Arch Dis Child Educ Pract Ed 2020; 105:326-330. [PMID: 32132093 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2019-318247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
With trauma being a leading cause of death for children, identifying all sustained injuries remains a priority for clinicians, and imaging is a key diagnostic tool to ensure that is achieved. However, children have a greater risk of detrimental effects of ionising radiation than adults. Clinicians therefore have to balance limiting their patients' radiation exposure to 'as low as reasonably achievable' with the need for diagnostic accuracy. But what is 'reasonable' in major trauma can be confusing. This article aims to clarify the current guidance on which body part to scan and when in paediatric major trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikki Abela
- RCEMLearning, Royal College of Emergency Medicine, London, UK
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Risk assessment for intra-abdominal injury following blunt trauma in children: Derivation and validation of a machine learning model. J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2020; 89:153-159. [PMID: 32569105 DOI: 10.1097/ta.0000000000002717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Computed tomography is the criterion standard for diagnosing intra-abdominal injury (IAI) but is expensive and risks radiation exposure. The Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN) model identifies children at low risk of IAI requiring intervention (IAI-I) in whom computed tomography may be omitted but does not provide an individualized risk assessment to positively predict IAI-I. We sought to apply machine learning algorithms to the PECARN blunt abdominal trauma (BAT) data set experimentally to create models for predicting both the presence and absence of IAI-I for pediatric BAT victims. METHODS Using the PECARN data set, we derived and validated predictive models for IAI-I. The data set was divided into derivation (n = 7,940) and validation (n = 4,089) subsets. Six algorithms were tested to create 2 models using 19 clinical variables including emesis, dyspnea, Glasgow Coma Scale score of <15, visible thoracic or abdominal trauma, seatbelt sign, abdominal distension, tenderness or rectal bleeding, peritoneal signs, absent bowel sounds, flank pain, pelvic pain or instability, sex, age, heart rate, and respiratory rate (RR). Five algorithms were fitted to predict the absence (low-risk model) or presence (high-risk model) of IAI-I. Models were validated using the test subset. RESULTS For the low-risk model, four algorithms were significantly better than the baseline rate (2.28%) when validated using the test set. The random forest model identified 73% of children as low risk, having a predicted IAI-I rate of 0.54%. For the high-risk model, all six algorithms had added predictive power compared with the baseline rate with the highest reportable risk being 39.0%. By incorporating both models into a web application, child-specific risks of IAI-I can be estimated ranging from 0.28% to 39.0% CONCLUSION: We developed a tool that provides a child-specific risk estimate for IAI-I after BAT. This publically available model provides a powerful tool for clinicians triaging pediatric victims of blunt abdominal trauma. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Prognostic, Level II.
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Traumatic Abdominal Wall Hernia in Children by Handlebar Injury: When to Suspect, Scan, and Call the Surgeon. Pediatr Emerg Care 2020; 36:e534-e537. [PMID: 28441239 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic abdominal wall hernias (TAWHs) can be defined as a herniation through disrupted musculature and fascia associated with blunt trauma. They are seen in approximately 1% of patients with blunt abdominal trauma. Data on TAWH in the pediatric population are very limited and principally based on case reports and a few case series. Past reports have indicated that the presence of the "handlebar sign" confers an increased risk of internal injury. Concomitant internal injuries are reported with an incidence between 25% and 70%, and occult hernias may also occur and are usually detected only by abdominal computed tomography scan and ultrasonography. The treatment of TAWH consists in surgical exploration through closure of the defect. We describe 2 cases of TAWH due to blunt impact by bicycle handlebars that occurred in our department with a brief literature review. Our objectives are to describe the variable clinical presentations and management of these events. We hope to provide a useful tool for the clinician to increase early clinical suspicion and detection of this insidious injury.
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