To evaluate the clinical presentation, therapy, and outcomes of children with severe TBI treated surgically or conservatively in a specialized pediatric care center, and to compare these outcomes with those of a historic cohort treated from 1996 to 2007.
Key Findings:
48 patients with severe TBI were identified in the 2008-2018 cohort.
Surgical interventions included decompressive craniectomy and craniotomy for mass evacuation, which were critical in managing elevated ICP.
ICP monitoring was performed in all patients, with secondary DC indicated for refractory ICP elevation.
Interpretation:
The study highlights the need for specialized pediatric treatment for severe TBI, reflecting differences in pathophysiology and recovery compared to adults, particularly in outcomes related to surgical interventions.
Limitations:
Retrospective design may introduce bias.
Loss to follow-up could affect outcome assessment, particularly in long-term recovery metrics.
Conclusion:
The findings underscore the importance of tailored approaches in managing severe TBI in children, advocating for further research and larger cohort studies to enhance clinical practice.
The nearly 15,000-square-foot facility will integrate multidisciplinary care, including neurology, neurosurgery, brain imaging, and physical medicine and rehabilitation.
