Recent Advances in Diagnosis and Management of Mandibular Fractures in Pediatric Patients

Objective: To evaluate recent advances in the diagnosis and management of pediatric mandibular fractures, focusing on the effectiveness of new imaging modalities, conservative and surgical treatment approaches, and post treatment care. Study Design: Retrospective study Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Karachi Medical and Dental College, Karachi from April 2022 to December 2023. Methods: Patients underwent imaging with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and 3D reconstruction, followed by either conservative management or surgical intervention with bioresorbable or titanium plates, depending on fracture complexity. Patients were monitored for complications, pain levels, nutritional support needs, and mandibular growth through regular follow-ups. Results: Conservative management showed a 95% success rate in fracture union with high patient satisfaction. Surgical intervention, primarily using bioresorbable plates, achieved a 98% success rate in union and a lower incidence of complications related to growth disturbances. Pain and nutritional support protocols facilitated effective recovery, with 92% of patients experiencing complication-free outcomes. Conclusion: It is concluded that advancements in imaging and bioresorbable materials have improved the outcomes of pediatric mandibular fracture management. Conservative management is effective for simple fractures, while bioresorbable materials provide stability in surgical cases with minimal impact on growth. These findings emphasize the importance of individualized, growth-conscious approaches in pediatric maxillofacial care.