Penetrating thoracic trauma in a pediatric population.

INTRODUCTION: Penetrating thoracic trauma in the pediatric population is increasing at an alarming rate. We sought to describe this population and to define prognostic factors that might be of benefit in the management of these patients. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the charts and trauma registry records of 65 patients 18 years of age and younger admitted to an urban level I trauma center with the diagnosis of penetrating thoracic trauma. RESULTS: The majority of the patients were adolescent boys. Injury severity score greater than 25 and a corrected admission pH less than 7.3 were associated with higher mortality and increased need for surgical intervention. Isolated thoracic injury was found to be associated with a high mortality rate. Autotransfused blood was used in 9 of the 65 patients. CONCLUSIONS: Injury severity score and corrected admission pH are independent predictors of mortality and need for operation in the pediatric population with penetrating chest injuries. Penetrating thoracic wounds demand special attention by the trauma team. The use of autotransfusion may be beneficial in pediatric trauma victims.