Canadian Association of Paediatric Surgeons: Liver trauma study. Trauma Committee.

Cases of liver injury treated by members of the Canadian Association of Paediatric Surgeons during 1986 and 1987 were surveyed. A total of 64 patients (39 boys and 25 girls) with a mean age of 7.6 years (range, 8 months to 17 years) were reported. Forty-six were treated nonsurgically and 18 surgically. Seven underwent simple suturing, and five had drainage alone; only three had liver resections. Three of the 64 patients died, all of associated injuries to the central nervous system. We conclude that most liver injuries are minor and only a few require surgery. The overall mortality rate is low.