Improved functional outcome for severely injured children treated at pediatric trauma centers

Background: Controversy exists regarding the impact of pediatric trauma cen ters (PTC) on survival for injured children. However, functional outcome fo r children treated at PTC compared with adult trauma centers (ATC) has not been evaluated. Methods: An analysis of children entered in the Pennsylvania Trauma Outcome Study between 1993 and 1997 was, conducted. Patients were stratified accor ding to type of trauma center: PTC; Level I ATC; Level II ATC; or ATC with added qualifications (AQ). Functional outcome at discharge was analyzed. Results: For severely injured children, there was an overall trend toward i mproved functional outcome at PTC compared with ATC AQ and ATC I, but no di fference compared with ATC H. PTC showed improved functional outcome at dis charge for head injury compared with ATC AQ and ATC L. Conclusion: There is an overall trend toward improved functional outcome at discharge for children treated at PTC compared with those treated at ATC A Q and ATC I. Improved outcome for head injury may be a key factor contribut ing to improved outcome at PTC.