Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effectiveness and safety of conservative versus surgical management in pediatric pancreatic trauma

In brief

This systematic review compares conservative (non-operative) versus surgical approaches for managing pancreatic injuries in children. The meta-analysis synthesizes evidence on treatment effectiveness and safety outcomes to guide clinical decision-making in pediatric trauma cases involving the pancreas.

• Conservative management shows comparable outcomes to surgery in select pediatric pancreatic trauma cases, supporting non-operative approaches.
• Meta-analysis provides evidence-based guidance for trauma surgeons managing pancreatic injuries in children.
• Safety profiles between conservative and surgical strategies are similar when appropriate patient selection criteria are applied.
• Clinical decision-making should incorporate systematic review findings to optimize pediatric pancreatic trauma management protocols.

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.