Baby walker injuries.

Background: Baby walkers (BWs) are still commonly used. The resultant injuries are largely preventable. Understanding the reasons for their use and the circumstances leading to these accidents might lead to prevention.

Objectives: To study the reasons for using BWs, how accidents occur, types of injury and their management.

Methods: Mothers of 100 children were interviewed while admitted or in the emergency room. The questionnaire included reasons for BW use, predisposing circumstances and types of injury sustained.

Results: BWs were used by 83% of the children (44% girls, 39% boys), starting at an age between 5 and 8 months. Reasons for use were: to be occupied, 71%; to walk earlier, 54%; to strengthen the legs, 28%. Accidents were sustained by 78 (94%) of the infants as a result of BW use. The reasons were: being pushed by someone, 37%; BW mechanical defect, 36%; tripping, 22%. The commonest place was in a corridor (52%). Head injuries were sustained by 82% and included bruising, epistaxis, cut lip, tooth damage, cut tongue, skin abrasions and skull fracture. Limb injuries were sustained in 17%: laceration and/or abrasion, bruising and joint dislocation.

Conclusions: Injury from use of BWs is still common. Doctors should discourage their use and parents informed about the attendant hazards. A playpen is a safer place for young children.