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Child's Nervous System

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01-08-2009 | Review Paper

Unusual penetrating head injury in children: personal experience and review of the literature

Authors: Z. Mackerle, P. Gal

Published in: Child's Nervous System | Issue 8/2009

Abstract

Introduction

A penetrating head injury belongs to the most severe traumatic brain injuries, in which communication can arise between the intracranial cavity and surrounding environment.

Discussion

The authors present a literature review and typical case reports of a penetrating head injury in children. The list of patients treated at the neurosurgical department in the last 5 years for penetrating TBI is briefly referred. Rapid transfer to the specialized center with subsequent urgent surgical treatment is the important point in the treatment algorithm. It is essential to clean the wound very properly with all the foreign material during the surgery and to close the dura with a water-tight suture. Wide-spectrum antibiotics are of great use. In case of large-extent brain damage, the use of anticonvulsants is recommended.

Conclusion

The prognosis of such severe trauma could be influenced very positively by a good medical care organization; obviously, the extent of brain tissue laceration is the limiting factor.

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Title: Unusual penetrating head injury in children: personal experience and review of the literature
Authors: Z. Mackerle
P. Gal
Publication date: 01-08-2009
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Child's Nervous System / Issue 8/2009
Print ISSN: 0256-7040
Electronic ISSN: 1433-0350
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-009-0901-z

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Unusual penetrating head injury in children: personal experience and review of the literature

Abstract

Introduction

Discussion

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Discussion

Conclusion

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