Penetrating Craniocerebral Injuries

Although not as common as closed head injuries, pediatric penetrating craniocerebral injuries (PCIs) account for significant morbidity and mortality within the pediatric population. PCI can be attributed to five overall causes: (1) accidental injury with sharp or semisharp objects, (2) warfare, (3) accidental discharging of firearms, (4) suicide, and (5) homicide.Initial assessment and treatment of PCIs occur at the sight of injury. Appropriate resuscitation and stabilization attempts combined with prompt transport to emergency departments has positively influenced outcomes.