Conservative Approach in the Treatment of Renal Trauma in Children

Objective: Our aim was to evaluate the role of a conservative approach in the treatment of renal trauma in the pediatric age group. Materials and Methods: A total of 31 pediatric patients with renal trauma (male = 25, female = 6) in whom we used a conservative approach in our clinic between the years 2002 and 2010 were included in the study. Patients were assessed according to the type of trauma, type of treatment, findings of radiological imaging, concomitant other organ injuries and complications occurring during follow-up. Results: Surgery was required in just 4 of 31 pediatric patients who were treated with the conservative approach. Of the patients who underwent surgery, only one child needed nephrectomy. No complications were detected in the clinical and radiological follow-up of the patients who received the conservative approach. Conclusions: The main objective in the treatment of renal trauma occurring in childhood is to protect the kidneys. If the hemodynamic findings are stable, a conservative approach should be the first preferred method of treatment in every grade of renal trauma that can occur in childhood.