A 10-year-old child sustains a blow to the face. Radiographic evaluation reveals a fracture pattern that differs from adults. Compared to adults, which of the following statements about pediatric facial fractures is correct?

• A The mandible is the most commonly fractured facial bone in children under 12
• B Greenstick fractures are more common due to the more elastic nature of pediatric bone ✓
• C Surgical management is always preferred over conservative management in children
• D The frontal sinus is well developed in children, making frontal bone fractures common

Explanation

Pediatric facial bones are more elastic and thicker, making incomplete or greenstick fractures more common than in adults. The mandible is less commonly fractured than the maxilla or nasal bones in young children because it is protected by the relatively larger cranium. The frontal sinus does not develop until around age 6 to 8 years and is not fully pneumatized until adolescence, so frontal bone fractures are rare in young children.

Reference: Cummings Otolaryngology, 7th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.