The analysis of a case involving potential head trauma (for protective authorities, prosecution, and/or defense attorneys) involves:
- Review of medical records from birth, primary care, any emergency department visits, inpatient admissions
- Review of autopsy report and photos where applicable
- Review of investigative information
Types of Education Available for the Attorney:
These cases are medically complex for prosecutors, defense attorneys, and civil attorneys (cases of missed abuse or supervision liability). Topics for education in the context of an expert review include:
- Anatomy of the head and reported injuries
- Differential diagnosis (were other potential etiologies evaluated and/or excluded)
- Was a proposed accidental mechanism considered and, if so, does an evidence base support consistency
- Current literature of abusive head trauma (otherwise known as “Shaken Baby Syndrome”)
- Consideration of what if any experts may be applicable for analysis of the elements in each case
Our approach is balanced and evidence based. As board-certified child abuse and emergency medicine physicians involved hands-on in the evaluation of children, we value the process of considering a differential diagnosis. The differential diagnosis in head injury/trauma includes child abuse, accidents, and a variety of medical problems that may mimic abuse.