Elevation of depressed (pond) fracture in infant using a vacuum-assisted device: Technical note

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Pond fracture also called ping-pong fracture in children is caused due to direct impact on the skull. It is rare and many types of treatment modalities have been described. In this report, we describe a makeshift vacuum-assisted device to elevate the fracture, which is both cost-effective and efficient. Case presentation: A 5-month-old infant was brought to the emergency department with a history of fall of heavy object on the head resulting in pond fracture over the left parietal area and an episode of focal motor seizures. After ruling out an intracranial injury with a computer tomogram, we elevated the depressed fracture by a makeshift vacuum suction device using a plastic funnel connected to vacuum chamber. Post-procedure child had one episode of focal seizure and was discharged after a brief period of observation. Conclusion: Plastic funnel vacuum suction can be effectively used to elevate the Pond fractures in infants with appropriate precautions.