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Published on: January 17, 2011
Special Considerations in the Management of Pediatric Facial Trauma
Hunter Archibald1, Gabriel Sobczak1, Dominic Vernon1
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1130 W. Michigan Street, Fesler Hall Suite 400, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
Insights
Pediatric facial fractures need modified treatments due to unique skeletal growth. Absorbable plates offer an alternative to metal fixation, avoiding removal in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Plastic Surgery
- Craniofacial Trauma
- Pediatric Orthodontics
Background:
- The pediatric facial skeleton differs significantly from the adult anatomy.
- Facial fractures in children require specialized management considering future growth and development.
- Untreated or improperly managed pediatric facial fractures can lead to long-term functional deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the distinct characteristics of pediatric facial fractures compared to adults.
- To emphasize the importance of nonoperative management in pediatric facial trauma.
- To discuss operative nuances and alternative fixation methods for pediatric facial fractures.
Main Methods:
- Review of pediatric craniofacial anatomy and growth centers.
- Analysis of treatment principles for pediatric facial fractures.
- Evaluation of surgical techniques and fixation options, including absorbable plates.
Main Results:
- Nonoperative management is generally preferred for pediatric facial fractures.
- Understanding growth centers and sutures is critical for surgical planning.
- Absorbable plate fixation is a viable option for specific pediatric facial fractures, eliminating the need for hardware removal.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric facial fractures necessitate modified treatment strategies distinct from adult protocols.
- Operative interventions require careful consideration of growth potential and functional outcomes.
- Absorbable plates present an advantageous alternative for fixation in pediatric patients.
Abstract:
The pediatric facial skeleton has different characteristics when compared to the adult face, and fractures require modified treatment approaches. Nonoperative approaches to facial fracture management are preferred given future bony growth and development of the pediatric facial skeleton. Location of growth centers and active sutures are important in surgical decision-making, as facial fractures in children carry long-term functional sequelae. When operative interventions are indicated, key nuances set pediatric facial trauma apart from its adult counterpart. Several subsites of facial fractures are amenable to absorbable plate fixation in pediatric patients, obviating the need for interval plate removal when employing metallic plates.
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