Neonatal Head Injuries Revisited

Abstract

Background

Between 1999 and 2005, 51 neonates were admitted to the regional Neonatal Surgical Unit (NSU), Glasgow with a diagnosis of head injury. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare this cohort with those from an earlier review of similar cases.

Methods and Results

Cases were reviewed using a structured data collection proforma. Information obtained was then compared with the results of an identical review carried out in the same Unit between 1990 and 1996.

In the present series, the majority of the injuries were caused by a fall (n=39 [78%]) and resulted in scalp haematomata (n=31 [62%]) and associated skull fractures (n=30 [60%]). Only one patient required significant intervention.

Conclusion

Comparing the two study periods, there has been a marked increase in the number of cases admitted with a diagnosis of head injury (n=51 v n=25). There has also been an increase in the number of intracranial haemorrhages reported, associated with an increase in the number of CT scans performed. Non-accidental injury remains uncommon in this patient group. Outcome was excellent for all patients.