Introduction: Mandibular fractures are relatively less frequent in children when compared to adults. Pediatric patients present a unique challenge to maxillofacial surgeons in terms of their treatment planning and in their functional needs. We currently describe our experience with lateral compression open cap splint with circummandibular wiring as a treatment modality which involves fewer risks in treating pediatric symphysis/parasymphysis/body mandibular fractures.
Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis of pediatric patients with mandibular symphysis/parasymphysis/body fractures operated from January 2007 to January 2012 was performed. Clinical photographs and orthopantomogram assessment at the time of presentation, after treatment, and at 6 months postoperatively were evaluated.
Results: All the 10 patients were followed up until the period of 6 months, and none of them had any major complications. Postoperatively, there was satisfactory healing and union of fracture fragments in all the patients. Only one patient developed infection at submental region. The 6-month follow-up showed good occlusion, without interference in teeth eruption and no signs of temporomandibular joint problems.
Conclusions: Lateral compression open cap splints for treatment of pediatric mandibular symphysis/parasymphysis/body fractures are reliable treatment modalities with regard to occlusion-guided fracture reduction.