What pediatric neurosurgeons fail to do, should to do, in cases of suspected abusive head trauma

Abstract

The number of cases of suspected child abuse that are referred to the Child Guidance Center has been on the increase, exceeding 200,000 cases per year since 2020. In line with this trend, the situation surrounding cases of suspected abusive head trauma has been changing. The existence of Nakamura type 1 subdural hematoma has been reaffirmed, and it is essential to collect not only a simple onset of symptoms (e.g., falls, external force) and medical findings, but also more detailed information on the situation of the injury (e.g., how and where the child was hit, from what height, etc.) and the family situation (potential risks). We believe it is essential to collect this information as early as possible. It is also our mission to ensure that correct information is accurately connected to specialized institutions.