Bilateral versus unilateral mandibular block anesthesia in a pediatric population.

PURPOSE This prospective study aimed to evaluate unilateral versus bilateral mandibular nerve block anesthesia with regard to post-operative soft tissue trauma and other complications in a pediatric population. METHODS A total of 320 patients age 2 to 18 years were appointed for routine operative treatment. There were no age, gender, behavior, or general health exclusions. Oral and written post-operative instructions were given to parents, as well as a survey preview. A phone survey was conducted after treatment to determine a number of variables, including soft tissue trauma. RESULTS A total of 13% of all patients experienced post-operative soft tissue trauma. By age group, trauma frequency was 18% (< 4 yrs.), 16% (4-7 yrs.), 13% (8-11 yrs.) and 7% (> 12 yrs.). Comparing unilateral versus bilateral subjects as to trauma revealed that in the < 4 age group trauma was higher for the unilateral subjects (35% vs. 5%, P < .02). Non-significant trends showed increased trauma in unilateral groups at ages 8-11 and > 12 years. CONCLUSION This study represents the first documentation of post-anesthetic soft tissue trauma prevalence in a pediatric population. The results reveal no contraindication to the use of bilateral mandibular block anesthesia.