Pediatric facial trauma in a tertiary care hospital: an epidemiological overview in Mexico

Abstract

Background: Pediatric facial trauma is a major public health concern because of its functional, aesthetic, and psychological impact on growing patients. Injury patterns vary according to age, sex, and trauma mechanism, with motor vehicle accidents (MVCs) and falls being the most common causes. Epidemiological data from Mexico remain limited.

Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted on patients <18 years old with facial fractures treated at the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service of the General Hospital of Mexico “Dr. Eduardo Liceaga” between January 2019 and January 2025. Demographic characteristics, trauma mechanisms, fracture location, and treatment modality were analyzed. All fractures were confirmed by computed tomography.

Results: Fourteen patients were included; 64.3% were male and 78.6% were students. MVCs were the most frequent mechanism of injury (35.7%), followed by falls from height (21.4%). Adolescents aged 16–20 years represented the most affected group (42.9%). Midface fractures were the most common injuries (42.9%), especially orbital floor and multiple fractures. Upper-third fractures involving the orbital roof and frontal region accounted for 14.3% each. Conservative treatment was performed in 57.1% of patients, whereas 42.9% required surgery. High-energy trauma was associated with more complex fractures.

Conclusions: Pediatric facial trauma predominantly affected male adolescents and was mainly associated with MVCs. Midface fractures were the most frequent injuries, emphasizing the importance of prevention strategies and optimized management protocols.