Minimal and mild paediatric brain injury: A 3-year cohort of consecutive presentations

Objective: To determine the number of children with minimal and mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) and their demographic factors, causes, associated signs/symptoms and management. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of consecutive presentations to a tertiary paediatric centre. Results: There were 2043 presentations of minimal and mild TBI over 3 years (minimal TBI=79.7% [n=1628]; mild TBI=20.3% [n=415]). Mean age was 5.12 years (SD=5.14) with children ≤3 years comprising 53.2% (n=1086). There was a bimodal distribution in mild TBI with peaks at 02 and 1315 years. The male-to-female ratio was 1.6:1. Only 34.6% of GCS scores were documented. Falls caused most injury. Overall, 6.3% (n=129) required hospital admission and 29.1% (n=594) were reviewed clinically. Conclusion: Minimal and mild TBI is common, representing a significant burden on individuals, families and healthcare providers. High rates of follow-up impact on the healthcare system and warrant further investigation.