Request for Funding

Medical Student Research Fellowship for Summer 2004

Mentor: Todd Maxson, MD, FACS, Medical Director
Department: Pediatric Trauma Service
Room number: A03-380, Children's Medical Center Dallas
Mail Code: N/A
Phone number: 214.456.8160
E-mail: todd.maxson@childrens.com
Project titles: Three (3) Projects (all patient-based)

1. Predicting Intra-Abdominal Compartment Syndrome in Children
IRB No. 1102-616
Brief Description of Project:
The purpose of this research study is to determine if the pressure in the bladder is the same as the pressure in the abdomen. It is hoped that the results of this study will aid in the diagnosis of abdominal compartment syndrome.

2. Pediatric abdominal examination with a distracting long bone fracture
IRB No. 1102-611
Brief Description of Project:
This study will evaluate the effects of a standard dose of narcotic analgesia given for the relief of pain from a long bone fracture on an examiner's ability to perform an accurate physical examination of the abdomen. In addition, the study will assess the necessity of abdominal CT scan in children with long bone injuries with normal mental status and a normal examination.

3. Does length of loss of consciousness predict brain injury?
IRB No. 1102-617
Brief Description of Project:
The purpose of this research project is to assess if a reported loss of consciousness after an injury but before arriving at the hospital emergency room can predict a brain injury. The pediatric patient will receive standard care for his/her injuries. Witnesses and paramedics will be asked to describe the loss of consciousness. If the child is less than 3 years of age, he/she will be evaluated for signs of brain injury. If older than 3 years of age, he/she will be asked questions to assess their memory and cognitive ability after the injury. After discharge there will be three (3) follow-up appointments in which memory and cognitive ability will be reevaluated. Currently, all children with a reported loss of consciousness prior to arrival at the emergency room receive a CT scan to assess for brain injury, although this is not standard care for the adult population. This study aims to identify whether loss of consciousness in a child is a good indicator of brain injury and the subsequent need for a CT scan.

Previous Research Activities or Publications with Medical Students:
In process.

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