Scoping it Out: The Use of Laparoscopy After Penetrating Trauma in Stable Children

In brief

This study examines the role of diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy in hemodynamically stable pediatric patients with penetrating abdominal injuries. While laparoscopic approaches are increasingly used in adult trauma, evidence in children remains sparse, prompting this review of current practices and clinical outcomes.

• Laparoscopy can be safely used in stable pediatric patients with penetrating abdominal trauma for diagnostic evaluation.
• Evidence supporting laparoscopy in pediatric trauma is limited compared to the growing adult trauma literature.
• Selective use of laparoscopy may help avoid unnecessary laparotomy in hemodynamically stable children with penetrating injuries.

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.