Pediatric trauma rehabilitation: a value-added safety net

Abstract

This article reviews the literature on the effectiveness of rehabilitation after pediatric trauma. The characteristics of comprehensive pediatric trauma rehabilitation services during the initial acute care hospitalization, as well as subsequent inpatient and outpatient care during the first 12 months after injury are discussed. Important research questions and the challenges associated with conducting such research are identified. For many children, rehabilitation is the final common pathway that may define the success or failure of their treatment-their ultimate outcome. Large, prospective, multicenter studies will be needed so that seriously injured children can receive standardized and effective rehabilitative care.