Patterns of pediatric injuries: a prospective cross-sectional study at the Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale, Ghana

Abstract

Introduction: childhood injuries account for more deaths than all other diseases combined in children between the ages of 5-14. Despite underreporting, morbidity and mortality from injuries are highest in low- and middle-income countries. Data on injury patterns can influence policy and help implement preventive measures. This study aims to determine the pattern of pediatric injuries at the Tamale Teaching Hospital.

Methods: data were prospectively collected from February 2023 to August 2023 at the Tamale Teaching Hospital on all patients below 17 years who sustained injuries resulting in admission for at least 24 hours. Injury severity was graded using the Kampala and Pediatric Trauma Scores. Data on patient demography, type of injury, mechanism of injury, treatment, and mortality were collected and analyzed.

Results: of 147 participants, 96 were males, with a mean age of 7.9 (± 4.8) years. The top three injuries were isolated head injuries (n=62, 42.2% of all patients), isolated fractures (n=25, 17%) and isolated burns (n=18, 12.2%). There were 12 (8.2%) participants with multiple injuries. Isolated head injuries were the most common type of injury for all ages above one year. The majority (n=110, 62.6%) was treated conservatively.

Conclusion: commonest injury patterns among children at the Tamale Teaching Hospital are head injuries, fractures, and burns. Improvements in capacity for neurosurgery and burn care should be prioritized.