Pediatric Head Trauma

Head trauma is an injury to the head, skull or brain that could affect the way the brain or body functions.

At Children's Health℠, we have a Level I Trauma Center. This means we’re capable of providing complete care for any injury and we always have top pediatric doctors of every specialty available, including neurosurgeons and other medical specialists to treat children with head trauma. We also have a dedicated neurological team in our ICU that specifically cares for patients with head or spinal trauma. Children with head trauma often have other injuries as well, and our neuro-team works alongside other pediatric specialists to ensure every child receives the care they need.

How is Pediatric Head Trauma diagnosed?

Mild head trauma, like a mild concussion, is typically diagnosed after an evaluation from a medical specialist. For moderate to severe head trauma, doctors perform tests to see inside the child’s brain and get information about brain function. These tests might include a CT scan, MRI and EEG.

What causes Pediatric Head Trauma?

Head trauma is prevalent among children and most often caused by falls, motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries and violence, like child abuse.

Although not all head trauma is preventable, you can reduce the risk of severe cases with a few best practices. Children should always wear a helmet when riding a bike or motorized vehicle. Seat belts and appropriate car seat use can also reduce the risk of head trauma in a car accident.

How is Pediatric Head Trauma treated?

Treatment varies based on the type and severity of head trauma. Children with mild concussions can typically recover on their own with rest. With moderate head trauma, like a moderate contusion, doctors may monitor the pressure in the brain to determine if surgical treatment is necessary. Severe head trauma cases usually require ICU care, surgical treatment and rehabilitation.

We treat all head trauma cases with the most advanced treatments, and our team of experts work together to ensure every child receives the care they need.

Pediatric Head Trauma doctors and providers

At Children’s Health, our team includes renowned pediatric neurosurgeons and medical specialists to ensure every child receives the care they need for head trauma.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Will my child with head trauma be able to play sports?

    Doctors will make specific recommendations on returning to sports based on your child’s condition.

  • What’s the follow-up care for my child with severe head trauma?

    Recovering from severe head trauma may require follow-up care, like physical therapy, physical medicine and rehabilitation services. We have these treatments available for children currently staying in the hospital and for children who need continued care after going home. For some severe head trauma cases, reconstructive surgery for the face or skull might also be a part of the treatment plan.

    Fortunately, children often make remarkable recoveries after head trauma. Some children make a complete recovery, and some children have persistent special needs. At Children’s Health, we have physicians and specialists available to provide your child and family with any care you may need after head trauma.