Proceedings of the third Childress Summit on pediatric trauma: Advancing multicenter research through the A+ Pediatric Trauma Research Network

Authors:
  • DNDavid M. Notrica
    David M. Notrica
  • RBRandall S. Burd
    Randall S. Burd
  • RBRita V. Burke
    Rita V. Burke
  • ESElizabeth H. Shilling
    Elizabeth H. Shilling
  • BYBarbara K. Yoza
    Barbara K. Yoza
  • MCMichelle Caldwell
    Michelle Caldwell
  • RMR. Todd Maxson
    R. Todd Maxson
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Pediatric trauma remains the leading cause of childhood mortality and contributes to over 8 million nonfatal injuries annually in children and young adults, with associated costs exceeding $908 billion. Despite its public health burden, pediatric trauma research is constrained by geographic dispersion of injuries, variability in care, and low volumes of critical injuries at individual centers. METHODS: The Summit convened 49 national experts from pediatric trauma, neurosurgery, emergency medicine, counseling, rehabilitation, research methodology, public health, and research organizations. Premeeting focus groups assessed baseline perspectives. In-person sessions focused on three goals: (1) develop a shared conceptual framework for collaborative research, (2) identify scientific priorities addressable only through network research, and (3) outline a roadmap for sustainable funding. Sessions included expert presentations, breakout discussions, and consensus building. RESULTS: Summit participants emphasized the need for standardized data collection, flexible center participation, mentorship of junior investigators, and harmonization of care practices to reduce intercenter variability. Scientific priorities included traumatic brain injury, hemorrhagic shock, prehospital care, and child abuse. Standardizing functional outcomes and implementing predictive models were highlighted as essential. Funding strategies focused on philanthropic seed funding, industry partnerships, and long-term federal investment, with advocacy identified as a key factor for network sustainability. CONCLUSION: The third Childress Summit accelerated the development national pediatric trauma network research network grounded in the A+ Pediatric Trauma Research Network framework. A coordinated, inclusive, and strategically funded research network is essential to advancing pediatric trauma science and improving outcomes for injured children nationwide. ( J Trauma Acute Care Surg . 2026;100: 995–1000. Copyright © 2025 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.) LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Expert opinion, Level V.

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