Pediatric Mandible Fractures

Mandibular injuries in the growing patient are not uncommon, and the mature patient with permanent dentition can often be treated similarly to the adult patient. However, pediatric patients with primary dentition and mixed dentition can often be treated much more conservatively due to their healing capacity. It is imperative that the surgeon understand proper application of Risdon cables/wires to facilitate conservative treatment in the pediatric patient. Additionally, some fracture patterns are concerning for growth disturbance and require monitoring over ensuing years to ensure that no further intervention is necessary.