How Do You Treat Nasal Fractures?

Discussion Facial trauma is common and accounts for about 11% of all pediatric emergency room visits. Nasal fractures are fewer in younger ages but increase in incidence as children age because of increased opportunity for trauma (e.g. playing, sports, car accidents, etc.). Anatomy also plays a part as young children have more cartilaginous structures and the nose does not protrude as much as an older child or adult who also have more osseous structures. The nasal structures have 2 bigger growth phases from 2-5 years and also at puberty. Adult size is reached in 16-18 years for females and about 2 years later for males (18-20 years). Fractures in children could cause problems with ability to breath and altered growth. History should include the mechanism of injury, its intensity and timing, along with other potential associated problems such as head and neck, dental or ocular injuries of the head and neck, or other body parts. As with all trauma, ABCs should be carried out and investigating for additional injuries is important. Head and neck structures should be evaluated for any trauma. The neck should be examined for pain, masses and range of motion (if appropriate). Eyes should be examined for symmetry, pupillary reflexes, extra ocular movements and acuity. Racoon eyes or other ecchymosis around the eyes may indicate basilar skull or other cranial fractures. Ear examination showing any trauma including hemotympanum should be evaluated for cranial fractures. Dental examina...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news