Long-term Sequelae of Pediatric Maxillofacial Fractures

This study aimed to investigate the long-term sequelae of pediatric maxillofacial fractures and further analyze the causes of these sequelae. A case series study was conducted on children with long-term sequelae after maxillofacial fractures treated between January 2015 and December 2020 in our institution. Relevant preoperative, postoperative, and follow-up data were collected and analyzed. A total of 25 patients were included. The long-term sequelae of pediatric maxillofacial fractures included temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (12/25), facial deformity (5/25), blindness (5/25), temporomandibular joint ankylosis (3/25), visual impairment (2/25), and permanent facial nerve injury (1/25). All cases of temporomandibular joint ankylosis involved concurrent fractures of the mandibular body and condyle, and all patients received conservative treatment. Preoperative CT scans showed lateral dislocation of the ramus stump and reduced joint space in all patients. All patients with facial deformities exhibited severely displaced fractures and had undergone inadequate fracture reductions. As a conclusion, surgical intervention should be considered for pediatric maxillofacial fractures when CT scans reveal lateral dislocation of the ramus stump and diminished joint space. For severely displaced pediatric maxillofacial fractures, anatomic reduction should be achieved during surgery to prevent facial deformities.