Trauma Laparotomy

Laura F Goodman, MD, MPH, Vatche Melkonian, D.O., Mary K Arbuthnot, DO, Vincent Duron, MD, John Horton, MD, Steven Stylianos, MD, John M McClellan, MD, Woo S Do, MD, Ken Azarow, MD, Mubeen Jafri, MD, John D Yonge, MD, Jessica Naiditch, MD

Introduction

Trauma remains the leading cause of death and disability in children and adolescents and the majority is due to blunt trauma [1][2]. However, in the United States, gunshot wounds surpassed motor vehicle collisions as the leading cause of death for children in 2019[3]. Although the principles of resuscitation for the injured child are the same as for adults, there are differences in patterns of injury, airway anatomy, cardiorespiratory physiology, response to blood loss, and thermoregulation; all of which pose unique challenges when caring for the injured child [4]. In addition, the perioperative planning, operative approach to the trauma laparotomy, necessary equipment, and postoperative management may vary based on the age of the patient and pattern of injury. Therefore a thorough understanding of pediatric anatomy, physiology, and injury patterns is essential for the successful management of the rare injured child who requires operative intervention.

see also Trauma Resuscitation and Initial Evaluation and Penetrating Trauma

content in this topic is referred to in SCORE Abdominal Trauma overview

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Last updated: August 25, 2025