A report of a novel approach for the management of paediatric mandibular fracture using a prefabricated adaptable surgical splint

Abstract

Paediatric facial fractures are relatively rare. The inherent elasticity of the bones with more of the cartilage than that of the mineralised bone accounts for this. The principles involved in the management of facial fractures are the same irrespective of the age of the patient; however, in children, the techniques used are necessarily modified by certain anatomical, physiological, psychological and feeding factors related to childhood and the parents. In an attempt to keep the treatment and fixation technique simple, the case, presented here, describes the management of a mandibular parasymphyseal fracture in a 16-month-old child with the use of a prefabricated adaptable surgical splint.

Keywords

• conservative approach
• mandibular fracture
• paediatric facial fractures
• prefabricated adaptable surgical splints