Facial skeletal trauma in the growing patient.

The management of pediatric craniomaxillofacial trauma requires the additional dimension of understanding growth and development. The surgeon must appreciate the considerable influence of the soft tissue envelope and promote function when possible. Children heal well but with an exuberant tissue response that may contribute to greater scarring, therefore, careful and prudent attention given to meticulous soft tissue repair and support is critical. Support must also be given and sought from the family of the injured child. Follow-up management of children must continue to ensure that the growth of the craniomaxillofacial skeleton continues within the normal parameters of development.