Oral, jaw, and neck injury in infants and children: from abusive trauma or intubation?

Objectives: The objective of this study was to identify the incidence of oral, jaw, and neck injury secondary to endotracheal intubation in young children.

Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the pediatric intensive care unit at a level 1 trauma center. From October 1998 to January 1999 and November 2007 to April 2008, all intubated patients younger than 3 years with no prior oral procedures were examined within 24 hours of intubation.