Paediatric temporal bone fractures: A single centre experience

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate clinical characteristics, treatments and outcomes of paediatric temporal bone fractures at our institute. Methods: A retrospective study of paediatric skull fractures confirmed by imaging from January 2010 to December 2022. Data on demographics, clinical presentations, injury mechanisms and complications were analysed, and fractures were categorised into otic capsule sparing (OCS) and violating (OCV). Results: Of 369 skull fracture cases, 88 (24 per cent) involved temporal bones, predominantly caused by falls and vehicle accidents. Common symptoms were loss of consciousness, hematoma, and hemotympanum, with complications like facial nerve injury and cerebrospinal fluid leaks in 3.4 per cent of cases. OCV fractures led to more severe complications, including hearing loss. Audiology showed 65 per cent without hearing impairment, while others had various degrees of loss. Conclusion: Paediatric temporal bone fractures, particularly OCV types, pose significant challenges. Early detection and thorough management are vital, underscoring the need for consistent data collection and regular audiometric monitoring.