Validation of a Noninvasive Score for Predicting Pediatric Intra-Abdominal Injuries

Investigators retrospectively validated the Blunt Abdominal Trauma in Children (BATiC) score in children <18 years of age presenting to a hospital in the Netherlands with blunt abdominal trauma between 2006 and 2011 (NEJM JW Emerg Med Jul 17 2009). Patients were included in the analysis if at least 6 of the 10 BATiC variables were available.

Points for the BATiC score were assigned as follows:

• 4 points for abnormal abdominal ultrasound findings (free fluid, or injury to hollow or visceral organs)

• 2 points each for abdominal pain, peritoneal irritation on physical exam, hemodynamic instability, aspartate aminotransferase >60 IU/L, and alanine aminotransferase >25 IU/L

• 1 point each for white blood cell count >10 × 109/L, lactate dehydrogenase >33…