Pediatric spinal trauma

Pediatric spinal trauma is relatively rare with roughly 5% of injuries occurring in this group. Cervical spinal trauma is most common in the pediatric population, followed by thoracic and lumbar injuries. The biomechanics of the evolving pediatric anatomy alter the injury characteristics and radiographic interpretation of pediatric spinal trauma patients. Systematic assessment paradigms are necessary in the evaluation and treatment of pediatric spinal cord trauma patients. Common treatment modalities for this subgroup of patients include halo fixation, bracing, and surgical instrumentation. While the surgical management options for pediatric spinal injuries have improved, the anatomical considerations associated with the size and growth potential of pediatric patients provide room for improvement of these modalities.