Predominant causes and types of orofacial injury in children seen in the emergency department.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to determine the type and cause of traumatic orofacial injuries in children up to 18 years of age.

METHODS: This retrospective study involved data collected from 12055 patients that came to Istanbul University, Medical Faculty, Department of Emergency in 2011. The patients' data were evaluated with regard to age, gender, etiologic factor of the trauma, type and localization of the injury, and time interval between injury and treatment.

RESULTS: A total of 1296 children in 12055 patients with orofacial trauma were evaluated. Trauma incidence was higher in boys (65%). The major etiologic factor of injury was falls (56%) and primary localization was in the frontal region (41%). The most frequent types of injury were laceration (30.1%) and hematoma (18.6%). 4% of the injuries were found in the orodental region including lips, teeth, tongue and oral mucosa of the mouth. 38% of the patients came to the emergency department within 30-60 minutes after the injury and 68% were sent home with symptomatic treatment.

CONCLUSION: Considering the high percentage of orofacial traumas, effective education is necessary regarding the appropriate diagnostic approach, emergency management and prevention of traumatic dental injuries.