Fractures of the facial skeleton in children: a survey of patients under the age of 11 years.

A clinico-statistical study was performed on 40 children aged less than 11 years of age, with maxillofacial fractures. Age, sex, type of fracture, incidence, aetiology, methods of treatment and complications were studied. The ratio of boys to girls was 2.6:1.0 and the highest incidence was at age 10 years. Mandibular fractures were the most common and the condylar region was particularly affected. Falls, road traffic accidents and sport injuries, including play accidents, were the major causes of these injuries. Conservative therapy, such as maxillo-mandibular fixation using eyelet wiring, was usually performed and was found to be successful. Ankylosis of the temporomandibular joint was seen in one patient. Infection was observed in three cases. One child had retarded facial growth due to damage to the condylar growth centre. Malunion and non-union were not seen. No deaths were recorded.