Trauma forms the second largest cause of death in children under 1 year of age. Infants form a difficult cohort of patients; their range of development, differing physiology and inability to communicate or understand treatment makes them a challenge for any healthcare worker. Several factors compound this problem including a general lack of familiarity within non-specialised trauma services and the difficulty in studying infants as a cohort in academic research. This article aims to summarise the common problems encountered in dealing with infants in a trauma setting and specific differences in their management compared to other children or adults. Where possible it details current evidence most appropriate to the age group.
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