Factors associated with prolonged hospitalizations from odontogenic infections in children.

Objective: Oro-facial infections are common pathologies comprising a substantial health concern in the pediatric population. Incorrect or late treatment may lead to serious and possibly life-threatening complications. The aim of this study is to analyze variables associated with prolonged length of hospital stays (LOS) due to odontogenic infections in children.

Study Design: Data was collected from the records of patients (age <15 years) hospitalized due to odontogenic infections at Poriya Medical Center during the period of 1/2010-12/2015. Patients with oro-facial infections originating from other organs were excluded from the study as well as children with underlying systemic medical conditions that may affect recovery.

Results: A total of 411 patients (mean age 6.5 ± 2 years) were included in this study, with 58.4% being male. There were significantly higher ( < 0.05) values of white blood cell (WBC) counts in patients with >3 days LOS. Patients with >3 days LOS were also significantly older (8.4 6.3 years). There were no significant differences in sex distribution or other clinical or laboratory parameters between the groups.

Conclusion: Older child age and higher WBC counts on admission are indicators for prolonged LOS.