Citation

Szadkowski MA, Bolte RG. Pediatr. Emerg. Care 2017; 33(2): 120-125.

Affiliation

Clinical Professor (Bolte) and Clinical Assistant Professor (Szadkowski), Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/PEC.0000000000001027

PMID

28141769

Abstract

The seatbelt syndrome describes an injury pattern infrequently seen in restrained passengers in motor vehicle collisions. It occurs when sudden deceleration forces coupled with compression of the lap belt around the abdomen causes abdominal wall bruising, intra-abdominal injuries, and spinal fractures. Infrequent and improper use of appropriate belt restraints in children has led to high risks for injury in this population.We describe a case of the seatbelt syndrome with the uncommon finding of an associated posttraumatic intestinal obstruction. We also review the literature on the prevalence, risk factors, and types of injuries sustained by children with the seatbelt syndrome as well as discuss the indications for laboratory studies, abdominal imaging, surgical intervention, and further observation. Current recommendations for child seatbelt use and its effectiveness in preventing injury are also reviewed.

Language: en