Characterization of pediatric mandibular fractures and their clinical management. Scoping review

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24265/p94b2735

Keywords:

Mandibular Fractures; Pediatrics; Maxillofacial Development; Maxillofacial Injuries; Closed Fracture Reduction

Abstract

Objectives: Mandibular fractures in pediatric patients are relatively rare; however, understanding their characteristics enables early detection and appropriate referral, preventing complications and reducing costs for both public health and the patient. The objective of this research was to characterize pediatric mandibular fractures and their clinical management through a scoping review. Materials and Methods: The study was based on the Arksey and O’Malley method, verified using PRISMA-ScR. An electronic search for available evidence in English and Spanish was conducted in the scientific databases PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCO using the terms mandible fracture” AND “pediatric.” Studies published between 2019 and 2024 were considered. Results: The search yielded 62 studies; duplicates were removed using the Rayyan artificial intelligence tool, resulting in 56 studies. After filtering by title and abstract, 29 articles were selected, and following a full-text review, 25 articles were included. Conclusions: The most common causes of pediatric mandibular fractures are motor vehicle accidents and sports- and play-related trauma, with males being the most affected demographic. The most frequently affected areas were the condyle and mandibular symphysis. A conservative management approach is generally preferred; however, the treatment strategy depends on factors such as age, displacement, and potential impact on growth and development. Although pediatric mandibular fractures are less common, their diagnosis and management should not be underestimated due to long-term complications. Conservative treatment is preferred, but it should always be tailored to the individual patient's needs.

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Author Biographies

  • Consuelo Garcia Fuster , Universidad de Valparaíso, Facultad de Odontología, Valparaíso, Chile

    Cirujana dentista

  • Ignacio Sanino Zavala, Universidad de Valparaíso, Facultad de Odontología, Valparaíso, Chile

    Cirujano Dentista, Docente de la Cátedra de Cirugía Maxilofacial

  • Gabriela Montero Soto, Universidad de Valparaíso, Facultad de Odontología, Valparaíso, Chile

    Estudiante pregrado

  • Daniela Costela Miranda, Universidad de Valparaíso, Facultad de Odontología, Valparaíso, Chile

    Estudiante pregrado

  • Melany Forton Donoso , Universidad de Valparaíso, Facultad de Odontología, Valparaíso, Chile.

    Estudiante pregrado

  • Rodrigo Quitral Argandoña, Universidad de Valparaíso, Facultad de Odontología, Valparaíso, Chile

    Cirujano Dentista, Docente de la Cátedra de Cirugía Maxilofacial

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Published

2025-10-01

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Section

Artículos Originales/ Original articles

How to Cite

Characterization of pediatric mandibular fractures and their clinical management. Scoping review. (2025). KIRU , 22(4), 279-284. https://doi.org/10.24265/p94b2735

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