Conservative approach in the management of mandibular fractures in the early dentition phase. A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

A case is described of the management of bilateral fractures of mandible as a result of being kicked by a horse, in a 2-year-old child. The fractures were treated without any surgical intervention and the child made a good recovery with good function and appearance. The fractured mandible in children under the age of 5 years provides us with difficult treatment options. By encompassing the anatomical and developmental potential of facial tissues, both hard and soft, the majority of these cases can be managed conservatively. This negates the disadvantages of attempting potentially growth disturbing interventional surgery.

Mandibular fractures in children: Analysis of 61 cases and review of the literature

“…Mandibular fracture without displacement and malocclusion are managed by close observation, a liquid to soft diet, avoidance of physical activities and analgetics [5,17,18].…”

Closed Reduction of Displaced Mandibular Fracture in a Child - A Case Study

“…Green stick fracture commonly occur in children due to thin cortices, inherent elasticity of bone, thick surrounding layer of adipose tissue and the relatively larger amount of medullary bone held by a strong periosteal support results in a high incidence of greenstick fractures in children. 4 Reparative process in children is rapid due to the increased metabolic rate and high osteogenic potential of periosteum. This result in early union, usually occur within 3 weeks, and delay in treatment for any reason can cause more serious problems than in adults.…”

Management of mandibular fracture in a medically compromised pediatric patient

“…All these factors should persuade the attending clinician, when confronted with a mandibular fracture in a child under the age of 5 years, to give serious consideration to conservative management. [10]…”

“…Thus, there is a greater degree of tolerance permissible in alignment of the fragments and restoration of occlusion, which will subsequently be corrected by alveolar bone growth at the time of eruption of the permanent teeth. [10]…”