Shaken Baby Syndrome

Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) is a severe and often life-threatening form of abusive head trauma (AHT) that occurs when a baby or young child is violently shaken. This causes the brain to move within the skull, leading to bleeding, swelling, and irreversible damage. Though widely reported in developed countries, SBS is often underdiagnosed, misunderstood, or misreported in Bangladesh due to lack of awareness, social stigma, and limited forensic pediatric training. Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman is committed to raising awareness and providing expert diagnosis, surgical intervention, and multidisciplinary care for infants who suffer from Shaken Baby Syndrome in Bangladesh. What is Shaken Baby Syndrome? Shaken Baby Syndrome, also called Abusive Head Trauma (AHT), occurs when a caregiver shakes a baby out of frustration or anger—most commonly due to incessant crying. A baby’s neck muscles are weak, and their brain is fragile. Vigorous shaking causes the brain to slam against the skull, resulting in: Subdural hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain) Retinal hemorrhage (bleeding in the eyes) Cerebral edema (brain swelling) Spinal cord injuries Fractures (especially ribs or long bones) These injuries can lead to long-term neurological disability, coma, or even death. Why SBS is a Hidden Issue in Bangladesh In Bangladesh, cultural silence around child abuse, lack of trained forensic experts, and low reporting often mask SBS cases as accidental falls or unexplained illnesses. Many caregivers are unaware of the devastating effects of shaking an infant. Factors contributing to SBS cases include: Lack of knowledge about newborn care and crying behavior Postpartum depression in mothers and mental health challenges in caregivers Domestic violence and family stress Absence of public health education programs on child abuse prevention Common Symptoms and Signs Infants with SBS may present with: Seizures Difficulty feeding or vomiting Decreased alertness or consciousness Breathing difficulty or apnea Unexplained lethargy or irritability Bulging fontanel (soft spot on head) Coma or sudden collapse In severe cases, SBS may lead to permanent brain damage, developmental delay, blindness, or death. Diagnostic Approach Prompt diagnosis is critical to saving lives and preventing further abuse. In Bangladesh, diagnosis is often missed unless specialists like Dr. Nafaur Rahman are consulted. Clinical Evaluation Thorough history taking—often difficult due to inconsistent caregiver narratives Full neurological and physical assessment Eye exam by an ophthalmologist for retinal hemorrhages Imaging CT Scan of the brain to detect subdural hematomas and skull fractures MRI for brain swelling, white matter injuries, and spinal cord damage Skeletal survey to detect hidden fractures Laboratory & Legal Reporting Blood tests to rule out bleeding disorders Mandatory child protection referral and documentation of suspected abuse Treatment Options in Bangladesh Neurosurgical Management by Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman Emergency surgery for life-threatening subdural hematomas or hydrocephalus Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) Shunt placement for persistent hydrocephalus Craniectomy or decompressive surgery in severe brain swelling Long-term monitoring for seizures, developmental delay, and spasticity Multidisciplinary Support Pediatric neurology and rehabilitation Speech and occupational therapy Psychiatric support for affected families Collaboration with child protection authorities Prognosis 25% of infants die due to Shaken Baby Syndrome 80% survivors suffer permanent disability Early diagnosis and intervention can improve outcomes Prevention through education is the most powerful tool Prevention and Awareness in Bangladesh SBS is 100% preventable. Dr. Nafaur Rahman advocates for nationwide campaigns focusing on: Educating caregivers on dangers of shaking Teaching safe techniques to calm a crying baby Promoting parental mental health and stress relief strategies Training healthcare workers to identify signs of abuse early NGOs, community clinics, and hospitals must work together to break the silence on child abuse and protect our most vulnerable citizens—our children. Why Choose Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman? Leading authority on pediatric brain injuries in Bangladesh Specialized in surgical treatment of pediatric traumatic brain conditions Works in close collaboration with NINS and Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre Passionate about raising awareness, preventing child abuse, and providing compassionate care Combines neurosurgical expertise with community-based advocacy Contact for Consultation or Emergency Referral Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman Assistant Professor, Pediatric Neurosurgery National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS) Chief Consultant, Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre 📞 Serial / Emergency Referral: 📱 01912988182 | 01607033535 🌐 Website: www.neurosurgeonnafaur.com