Effects of COVID-19 lockdown on emergency paediatric plastic surgery admissions

Objective: On 23rd March 2020, Australia went into a nationwide lockdown that led to school closures. As a result, children spent more time at home, increasing their vulnerability to injuries sustained at home. This study aims to analyse the patterns of emergency paediatric plastic surgery admissions into a tertiary paediatric hospital in Sydney during the COVID-19 lockdown period, and to raise awareness on the impacts of lockdown measures on the vulnerable pediatric population. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted at a tertiary paediatric hospital in Sydney. Admissions into the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery department during the lockdown period of 23rd March to 15th May 2020, and the same period in 2019 were included in the analysis. Ethics approval for the study was obtained from the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network Human Research Ethics Committee [HREC Reference 2021/ETH00451] Results: There were 37 and 91 admissions in 2020 and 2019 respectively. The proportion of injuries sustained at home increased by 24% in 2020, consistent with increased time spent at home. The percentage of injuries due to animal bites and sharp objects increased while number of sports-related injuries and falls decreased during the lockdown. Motor vehicle accidents increased in 2020. More patients also opted for conservative management in 2020. Conclusion: This study has shown that during a pandemic lockdown, home injuries are more common, children are less likely to present to hospital and more likely to opt for conservative management. With a greater understanding of patterns of paediatric injuries during lockdowns, the relevant authorities can develop targeted advisories for dissemination to the public on how to create a safe home environment for children.