Emergency department evaluation of blunt abdominal trauma in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis of patterns and outcomes

Huda Alsubhi; Osman Suliman; Amal Alsubhi; Sara Altom

doi:10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20254096

Authors

Huda Alsubhi Al-Rayan National College of Medicine, Al-Rayan National Colleges, Al-Madinah, Saudi Arabia
Osman Suliman Department of Medicine, University of Medical Sciences and Technology (UMST), Khartoum, Sudan
Amal Alsubhi Al-Rayan National College of Medicine, Al-Rayan National Colleges, Al-Madinah, Saudi Arabia
Sara Altom Department of Basic Sciences, Al-Rayan National College of Medicine, Al-Rayan National Colleges, Al-Madinah, Saudi Arabia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20254096

Keywords:

Blunt abdominal trauma, Children, Emergency department, Systematic review, Diagnosis, Outcomes

Abstract

Blunt abdominal trauma is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children. Accurate and timely evaluation in the emergency department is critical for optimizing outcomes and minimizing unnecessary imaging or interventions. Objective of the study was to systematically review current evidence on evaluation patterns, diagnostic modalities, and clinical outcomes in pediatric patients presenting with blunt abdominal trauma to emergency departments. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from January 2010 to June 2025. Studies reporting diagnostic approaches, imaging patterns, injury severity, management, and patient outcomes in children under 18 years were included. Data were extracted and synthesized qualitatively and quantitatively where appropriate. Twenty-two studies comprising 18,950 pediatric patients were analyzed. Physical examination combined with focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) increased diagnostic accuracy and reduced computed tomography (CT) utilization. Non-operative management remained the mainstay for most solid organ injuries, with excellent survival rates exceeding 95 percent. Delayed diagnosis was associated with higher complication rates and prolonged hospital stays. Systematic evaluation protocols, including selective imaging and observation strategies, improve diagnostic precision and outcomes in pediatric blunt abdominal trauma. Future research should focus on refining risk stratification tools to further reduce radiation exposure without compromising safety.

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