Pediatric chest trauma: a unique challenge

Blunt and penetrating trauma in children are uncommon but nevertheless remain a major source of morbidity and mortality. The peculiarity of some anatomic and physiologic factors makes the management and the treatment of pediatric thoracic trauma very difficult. A thorough evaluation of the patient along with a proper management are key factors in order to obtain excellent short- and long-term outcomes. Our review focuses on clinical presentation, diagnostic pathways and treatment options in pediatric chest trauma patients.