Pediatric orthopedic trauma: Spine and pelvis trauma

Pediatric spine fractures are rare, but they can be devastating. These injuries account for only 1–2% of all pediatric trauma admissions. Mortality rates are reported to be as high as 5–41% [1–4]. The discrepancy between the low rate of spine and pelvic injuries and high mortality can be attributed to the unique anatomic challenges of the growing spine and the fact that the mechanisms causing these injuries may cause injuries to other systems. Physician unfamiliarity with these injuries may also play a role. Although each child is unique, there are common injury patterns that must be recognized early and appropriately managed.