Fractura-hundimiento craneal congénita con resolución espontánea

Ping pong fractures: treatment using a new medical device

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the use of a new medical device to elevate depressed skull fractures (DSFs) in newborns and minor infants.

METHODS

Nine patients (ranging from 1 day to 9 months of age) with simple DSF underwent skull elevation by a new elevator medical device. This medical device comprises two elements: a pediatric resuscitator (CPR mask) connected to a 50-ml syringe. Pediatric CPR face mask is placed on the depressed region and negative pressure is generated through syringe plunger elevation until fracture reduction is observed.

RESULTS

Fracture reduction was confirmed in eight of nine patients by computed tomography scan without underlying brain damage and associated complications. Skull asymmetry was eliminated recovering normal shape. Up to now, there are no neurological concerns. Another treatment was chosen to be applied for one patient who did not respond to manipulation.

CONCLUSION

The new device is a safe, affordable, and effective choice in the treatment of simple depressed skull fractures in newborns and minor infants.

Depressed skull fracture in Ping Pong: elevation with Medeva extractor

INTRODUCTION

The bones of the skull of the newborn and nursing infants, in general, possess great malleability. For this reason, the depressed fractures occurring at this age are called "Ping Pong" or "Green Stick" fractures. The treatment of these fractures is surgical according to different authors, although some of these fractures that happen in childbirth can elevate themselves spontaneously.

TECHNIQUE

A breast milk extractor trade mark "MEDEVA" was used for the procedure in newborns with a depression larger than 2 cm in diameter. Minimal aspiration was performed while observing the elevation through the transparent breast milk extractor MEDEVA until the depression elevated without leaving any trace.

DISCUSSION

The aspiration procedure was satisfactory and curative in the five children treated. The fracture was successfully elevated and the skull returned to its normal position and configuration without complications for the patients.

CONCLUSION

Finally, it has been demonstrated that this procedure is simple, inexpensive, and avoids surgical intervention.