Risk factors for increased length of hospital stay among young pediatric patients who suffer facial fractures

Abstract

Background/Aim It is not known whether the mechanism of facial trauma influences the associated length of hospitalization. The aim of this study was to determine whether the mechanism of injury influenced the length of hospital stay (LOS) among pediatric patients who sustained facial fractures. Materials and methods This retrospective cohort study was completed using the Kids' Inpatient Database (KID). The primary predictor variable was the mechanism of injury. The primary outcome variable was LOS. Linear regression was used to determine independent predictors of increased/decreased length of stay. A p‐value of less than .05 was considered statistically significant. Results The final sample consisted of 2865 subjects aged 12 years or younger who had suffered facial fractures. The most common mechanism of injury was motor vehicle accidents (MVA) (58.6%). Facial fractures due to MVA added 1.20 days (95% CI, 0.02, 2.38; p < .05) when compared to those due to a fall. Conclusions MVA significantly prolonged the LOS among young pediatric patients who sustained facial fractures, reflecting the exceptional amount of force involved. Having a chronic condition was also a significant factor for longer LOS. Four or more fractures also led to a longer LOS.

Mouthguard design, pediatric trauma, and reporting guidelines

“…Among management options are open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and physical therapy with a soft diet or maxillomandibular fixation (MMF). [28][29][30][31] In this Issue, Sobrero et al…”

“…However, the treatment of these injuries remains controversial. Among management options are open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and physical therapy with a soft diet or maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) 28–31 . In this Issue , Sobrero et al conducted a retrospective study to analyze the surgical treatment and long‐term outcomes of dentate mandibular fractures in children and adolescents 32 .…”

Predictive factors for maxillofacial fractures, sedentary behavior, and dental trauma literacy

“…Several studies report the potential complications of oral trauma in children and adolescents. [1][2][3] Maxillofacial fractures in pediatric populations can occur due to a variety of causes, including road traffic accidents, falls, violence, and sports. 4 Due to the ongoing developmental process, the approach to oral trauma in children differs from that in adults.…”

“…Several studies report the potential complications of oral trauma in children and adolescents 1–3 . Maxillofacial fractures in pediatric populations can occur due to a variety of causes, including road traffic accidents, falls, violence, and sports 4 .…”