Comminuted Mandibular Fractures in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report with Review

Abstract

Background and Introduction: Maxillofacial fractures are less common in children. Mandibular fractures are less in children because of the protective anatomy in them. Management of the pediatric fracture depends on the type and severity of the fracture displacement. It can vary from conservative management with acrylic splint and arch bar fixation to surgical exposure of the fracture site with internal fixation. Special consideration is needed in children for the interferences of growth and developing tooth buds while going for the surgical management. The hardware for internal fixation can be made up of either titanium or bioresorbable material. Case Presentation: Here is the presentation of a case of a 7-year-old male patient who had a history of trauma because of falling from a tractor while playing, 2 days back from reporting. He had multiple mandibular fractures with extensive soft tissue laceration. Following the emergency tracheostomy, he was managed with open reduction and internal fixation of the compound mandibular fracture. Conclusion: Displaced mandibular fractures require open reduction and internal fixation of the fractured fragments with either titanium or biodegradable hardware. Open reduction also shortens the period of intermaxillary fixation and hence reduces the possibility of the development of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis.