Pediatria pre prax 3/2017

Specifics of facial fractures in children

Fractures of facial skeleton in children involve mainly the mandible. The most common localisation is condylar process with possible development of ankylosis. To long-term sequeles belong facial asymmetry (by unilateral fracture) or bird profile (by bilateral fracture). Malocclusions may develop also after contusion of the growth centres in the mandibular head without any fracture, thus children with fall on chin have be under long-term follow up. In body of the mandibule can occur „green stick“ fractures. The treatment of the fractures in children is generally more conservative, metalic miniplates are contraindicated.

Keywords: facial injuries in children, mandibular fractures, malocclusions, ankylosis