Minimally Invasive Surgical Management of Complex Pediatric Facial Fractures

Abstract

Le Fort fractures in pediatric patients are rare, and their management has increased complexity due to the development of the maxillofacial musculoskeletal complex and dentition. The authors present a case using historic circum-zygomatic wiring with 21st century surgical planning in a 18 month old, who sustained complex Le Fort II and III fractures. Treatment involved surgical planning with dental and stereolithographic models, and the fabrication of a retention modified, occlusal splint. Closed reduction with circum-zygomatic wiring retained by the occlusal splint, for a 3 week period, prior to removal. At 12 month review, the patient had good facial symmetry, cosmesis, profile, and function. The use of circum-zygomatic wiring provided a conservative operative approach, achieving excellent functional and cosmetic results without the potential morbidity of more invasive surgery.