Baby walkers--an underestimated hazard for our children?

Eur J Pediatr. 1994 Jul;153(7):531-4. doi: 10.1007/BF01957011.

Abstract

Baby walkers (BWs) continue to be a frequent cause of head injuries in young children. A random sample survey of 240 families with children aged 2-6 years revealed a use rate of baby walkers of 55%. Of the children using baby walkers 20% were found to have suffered a BW-related accident. In a retrospective study we reviewed 172 case reports of infants who suffered a BW-related injury between January 1990 and June 1993. We observed 19 skull fractures, 23 concussions of the brain and 125 contusions and lacerations of the head including 4 teeth luxations and 3 fractures or distortions of the upper extremity. BW-related injuries represent the third most common mode of injury in children aged 7-14 months. We conclude that despite previous warnings BW still represent a frequent cause of severe head injuries in young children. We recommend a general ban on the sale and manufacture of BWs.

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls / prevention & control
  • Accidental Falls / statistics & numerical data
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Craniocerebral Trauma / epidemiology
  • Craniocerebral Trauma / etiology*
  • Data Collection
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant Equipment / adverse effects*
  • Infant Equipment / statistics & numerical data
  • Male
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Time Factors