Emergent Pediatric Neurosurgery Consult Criteria


Original Date: 02/2017 | Supersedes: 02/2017; 09/2021, 11/2022 | Last Review Date: 02/2024 (Reviewed with no changes)
Purpose: The purpose of this guideline is define the type of pediatric patients that require an emergent neurosurgery consult and should be seen within 30 minutes from consult.


Procedure

Any pediatric patient presenting with any of the following conditions should have an emergent pediatric neurosurgery consult placed.

  • Severe TBI (GCS less than 9) with head CT evidence of intracranial trauma
  • Moderate TBI (GCS 9–12) with head CT evidence of potential intracranial mass lesion
  • Mild TBI (GCS 13-15) with CT evidence of intracranial hemorrhage with mass effect or midline shift.
  • Neurologic deficit as a result of potential spinal cord injury (applicable to spine surgeon, whether a neurosurgeon or orthopaedic surgeon)
  • Trauma surgeon discretion