Physical Disability After Injury-Related Inpatient Rehabilitation in Children

Pediatrics, 2013 · DOI: 10.1542/peds.2012-1418 · Published: January 1, 2013

Simple Explanation

This study looks at how well children recover physically after being hurt badly enough to need special hospital care called inpatient rehabilitation. The study found that while most children got better, those with spinal cord injuries still had a lot of trouble moving around and taking care of themselves. Knowing how much kids improve helps doctors and families plan for what kind of help they'll need when they go home and back to school.

Study Duration

10 Years

Participants

13798 children aged 7 to 18 years

Evidence Level

Retrospective cohort study

Key Findings

1
Children with traumatic injuries had severe physical disability on admission to inpatient rehabilitation.
2
Children with spinal cord injuries had persistent disability at discharge compared to those with TBIs, burns, and multiple injuries.
3
Lower discharge functional grade was associated with a greater number of average medical comorbidities.

Research Summary

This study assessed physical disability in children after inpatient rehabilitation for traumatic injuries. Children showed reduced functional limitations after a 3-week stay, but residual physical disabilities remained, especially in those with spinal cord injuries. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive care and support for children with traumatic injuries, particularly those with spinal cord injuries, as they reintegrate into their communities.

Practical Implications

Clinical Care Planning

The study provides insights into the level of physical disability children face after traumatic injuries, informing clinical care planning and goal setting during rehabilitation.

Resource Allocation

The findings highlight the need for increased resources and specialized care for children with spinal cord injuries to address their persistent disabilities and comorbidities.

Community Support

The study underscores the importance of providing ongoing support services for children and their families as they transition back into their homes, schools, and communities.

Study Limitations

1
The cohort included a small sample of younger children.
2
Infrequent documentation of ICD-9 E-codes that describe injury mechanism.
3
Lack of information surrounding premature discharge from inpatient rehabilitation.

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