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Trauma Center

Lurie Children's Trauma Center is a City of Chicago-designated Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center, which means we’re staffed and equipped to handle the most severely injured children. We see approximately 800 trauma victims each year, ranging in age from birth to 16 years. Patients are admitted through the Kenneth & Anne Griffin Emergency Care Center or referred from other hospitals, which occasionally use our heliport or are brought in by our Transport Team.

Some of the most common injuries the Trauma Center treats include:

  • Blunt and penetrating head injuries, particularly concussions
  • Abrasions, lacerations and other wounds
  • Fractures/broken bones and dislocations
  • Blunt and penetrating injuries to the chest, abdomen and extremities
  • Burns

What to Expect

Pediatric general surgeons direct the trauma service and provide care via the immediate response team. Children admitted to the hospital are under the care of the pediatric surgery service for the first 24-48 hours of care. Though other specialists, such as those from orthopaedic surgery, neurosurgery and critical care, may become part of the care team for patients, pediatric surgeons often take the lead in arranging patients’ care conferences or consultations.

Patients and parents being admitted to the trauma service can expect the following evaluations upon their arrival at the hospital.

  • A comprehensive review of the patient’s medical and surgical history
  • A head-to-toe physical exam
  • A focused evaluation of the injuries and any complications
  • Diagnostic tests, including x-rays or other imaging, as needed
  • A review of treatment options, such as medication, surgery or rehabilitation

Resources & Educational Materials

Our Trauma Center is deeply committed to helping prevent injuries. Visit the Lurie Children's Blog for more information on ways to keep your children safe.

Philanthropy

Your support is vital in helping us continue to make a difference in the lives of patients and families. Lurie Children's relies on philanthropic funding to enhance its programs, services and research for children. To learn more, please e-mail the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago Foundation at foundation@luriechildrens.org or call 312.227.7500