Behind The Knife: The Surgery Podcast BIG T TRAUMA Ep. 26: Pediatric Trauma #2
Nov 10, 2025
Joining the conversation are Teddy Puzio, a pediatric trauma specialist at UT Houston, Charles Cox, a trauma expert in pediatric care, and Tyler Simpson, a trauma fellow with expertise in imaging guidelines. They dive into the intricacies of pediatric trauma, discussing how injury mechanisms can predict specific outcomes. The trio highlights notable differences in pediatric anatomy, the risks of ionizing radiation from imaging, and the critical red flags for non-accidental trauma. Their practical insights aim to enhance clinical decision-making in treating injured children.
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Mechanism Predicts Pediatric Injury
- Mechanism often predicts pediatric injury patterns, so treat mechanism as a primary diagnostic clue.
- Apply standardized trauma assessments (X, A, B, C, D, E) while accounting for pediatric nuances.
Pediatric Anatomy Alters Injury Signs
- Children's anatomy changes injury risk: larger heads, compliant chest walls, thin abdominal walls, and bigger viscera.
- Expect serious intrathoracic or abdominal injury without classic adult signs like rib fractures.
Recognize Seatbelt Injury Patterns
- Watch for seat belt syndrome with improperly restrained children; look for abdominal wall contusion, back pain, vomiting.
- Anticipate chance fractures and compression injuries to duodenum, jejunum, or pancreas.