Oropharyngeal Lesions and Trauma in Children

Oropharyngeal trauma is common in the pediatric population. Most of these injuries are self-limited, do not require repair, and heal without complications. Because of the presence of teeth and important adjacent structures within the head and neck, some of these injuries will require acute intervention and subspecialty consultation in the emergency department. Emergency care providers must also be cognizant of injuries to the head, neck, and face as a potential hallmark for child abuse. This article reviews common oropharyngeal lesions that occur in children, including trauma, and the management of these conditions, including techniques for orofacial nerve blocks.