Pediatric Maxillofacial Trauma: A Review of 156 Patients.

PURPOSE: To review the epidemiology and management of facial fractures in a pediatric population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was a retrospective review of patients younger than 18 years who presented to a pediatric emergency department during a 5-year period in an urban, academic, level 1 designated trauma center.

RESULTS: Of the 156 patients identified, most were boys (87%) and the mean age was 13.5 years (standard deviation, 4.9 yr; interquartile range, 12 to 17 yr). The most common mechanism of injury was assault (48.1%). Mandibular fractures (40.7%) were most common. Multiple fractures occurred in 26.9% of patients. Concomitant injuries occurred in 73.7% of patients, most commonly concussions (39.1%). Intracranial hemorrhages were associated with panfacial (P = .005), frontal (P = .001), and orbital (P = .04) fractures. Most patients (91.7%) were admitted, and nonoperative repair was undertaken in 57.1%. There was an independent association of surgical intervention with age older than 14 years and with mandibular fractures (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS: Assault was the most common mechanism of injury and mandibular fracture was the most commonly encountered. Concomitant nonfacial injuries occurred in most patients. Patients sustaining panfacial, frontal, and orbital fractures should provoke an evaluation for other intracranial injuries. Children older than 14 years and those with mandibular fractures should prompt mobilization of resources for operative repair.