Introduction

Abdominal injuries affect about 10% of injured children with the spleen and liver the most frequently injured organs. The unique anatomic features of children make them susceptible to abdominal injuries. Their smaller size means that organs are more closely packaged together predisposing children to multiple injuries. The relative immaturity of the rib cage and general lack of well defined soft tissue padding in children result in a greater exposure of the upper abdominal organs to energy transmission through traumatic impact. In addition, lower velocity mechanisms, such as falls and sports injuries, can result in significant injury to these less well protected upper abdominal viscera.

Content in this module is referenced in SCOREAbdominal Trauma overview