Pediatric Maxillofacial Trauma: Insights into Diagnosis and Treatment of Mandibular Fractures in Pediatric Patients
Elena Hofmann, Steffen Koerdt, Max Heiland, Jan-Dirk Raguse, Jan Oliver Voß
Abstract
Aim: To assess the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in pediatric mandibular fractures with regards to fracture pattern and localization. Patients and methods: tests. Results: = 61). The main causes were activities of daily life (34.1%), followed by assault (25.3%). Malocclusion and pain upon mandibular joint compression were documented in 72.5% and 51.7% of patients, respectively. The most frequently applied radiological diagnostic tool was a panoramic X-ray (49.5%). The main fracture patterns were single (42.9%) and double fractures (48.4%). An age-adapted surgical approach using open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) was the most frequent management (61.5%). A conservative approach was favored in cases of condylar head fractures. Resorbable plates were used in eight cases of ORIF (8.8%). Conclusion: Treatment regimens should be carefully selected based on the unique anatomy of the pediatric patient with regards to centers of growth and dentition phase, to restore stomatognathic function and to maintain adequate skeletal growth and eruption of teeth. Clinical significance: This study illustrates the challenges of mandibular fracture management in the pediatric patient. How to cite this article: Pediatric Maxillofacial Trauma: Insights into Diagnosis and Treatment of Mandibular Fractures in Pediatric Patients. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(3):499-509.