Limited Efficacy of Empiric Antibiotics for Pediatric Facial Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Controversies exist regarding the role of perioperative antibiotic use in pediatric craniomaxillofacial fracture repair. PURPOSE: This study aims to identify factors associated with antibiotic prescribing patterns and measures the association between antibiotic exposure and postoperative infections. STUDY DESIGN, SETTING, SAMPLE: In this retrospective cohort study, TriNetX, a research database, was used to gather data on patients under 18 years of age who underwent repair of facial fractures. The records were obtained from 2003 to 2021. Current Procedural Terminology codes for facial fracture procedures were used to identify patients. PREDICTOR/EXPOSURE/INDEPENDENT VARIABLE: Antibiotic use, defined as a binary categorical variable of whether or not patients received perioperative antibiotics. The secondary predictor variable was timing of antibiotic administration, categorized by pre, intra, and postoperative administration. MAIN OUTCOME VARIABLES: Postoperative infection, determined by International Classification of Diseases, 9th and 10th Revision codes within patient charts. COVARIATES: Covariates included demographic variables such as age, sex, race, ethnicity, geographic location, and fracture characteristics, such as number of fractures and location of fracture. ANALYSES: χ2 analyses were used for categorical variables and two sample t tests for quantitative variables. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate patient infection and antibiotic use with adjustment for covariates. P-values were 2-tailed and statistical significance was defined as P < .05. RESULTS: This cohort included 5,413 patients of which 70.4% were male, 74.4% identified as white, and 83.3% identified as non-Hispanic or Latino. There were no differences in postoperative infections in patients who received antibiotics compared to those who did not (0.9 vs 0.5%, respectively, P = .12). Nevertheless, antibiotic prescriptions have increased over the years. After controlling for relevant covariates, antibiotic use did not decrease the odds of infection (adjusted odds ratio 1.1, 95% CI 0.53 to 2.34, P = .79). There was a significant association between the timing of antibiotic use and infection (P = .044), with increased odds of infection when antibiotics were given postoperatively (adjusted odds ratio 3.8, 95% CI 1.2 to 12.07, P = .023). CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE: While antibiotic prescriptions have increased over the years, this study demonstrates there is no difference in postoperative infection rates for pediatric patients prescribed antibiotics and those where were not.

A Surgeon's Armamentarium for Ocular Management in Facial Paralysis: A Comprehensive Review.

OBJECTIVE: To review the current management paradigm of the eye in patients with facial paralysis. METHODS: A PubMed and Cochrane search was done with no date restrictions for English-language literature on facial synkinesis. The search terms used were "ocular," "facial," "synkinesis," "palsy," "neurotization," and various combinations of the terms. A total of 65 articles were included. RESULTS: Facial paralysis may result in devastating ocular sequelae. Therefore, assessment of the eye in facial paralysis is a critical component of patient management. Although the management should be individualized to the patient, the primary objective should include an ophthalmologic evaluation to implement measures to protect the ocular surface and preserve visual acuity. The degree of facial paralysis, lacrimal secretion, corneal sensation, and position of the eyelids should be assessed thoroughly. Patients with the anticipated recovery of facial nerve function may respond to more conservative temporizing measures to protect the ocular surface. Conversely, patients with expected prolonged paralysis should be appropriately identified as they will benefit from surgical reconstruction and rehabilitation of the periorbital complex. The majority of reconstructive measures within a facial surgeon's armamentarium augment coverage of the eye but are unable to restore blink. Eyelid reanimation restores the esthetic proportionality of the eye with blinking and reestablishes protective functions necessary for ocular preservation and function. CONCLUSIONS: Ocular preservation is the primary priority in the initial management of the patient with facial paralysis. An accurate assessment is a critical component in identifying the type of paralysis and developing an individualized treatment plan.

Biologics and acellular dermal matrices in head and neck reconstruction: A comprehensive review.

Acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) have been studied extensively in the literature and have gained popularity for various reconstructive and aesthetic purposes. ADMs are composed of a basement membrane and acellular dermal layer of collagen and provide a platform for mucosal epithelization and neovascularization. Combining dermal collagen and essential growth factors allows ADMs to support adequate wound healing and bolster soft-tissue repairs. These dermal matrices can be derived from human cadaveric donor skin (allogenic) or mammalian donor sources (xenogeneic). These dermal substitutes provide the benefit of reducing or eliminating the need for autologous tissue grafts and subsequently minimize donor site morbidity. Many ADMs are currently available in the market, each with variations in processing, manufacturing, storage, preparation, and use. The literature validating ADMs in the head and neck for both cosmetic and reconstructive purposes is evolving rapidly. This review aims to provide an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of the principles of acellular dermal matrices (ADMs), the different types of ADMs, and evaluate common indications, techniques, and outcomes pertaining to select anatomic sites in the head and neck reconstruction.

The Supraorbital Approach via an Eyebrow Incision: Analysis of Cosmetic Outcomes Using the Scar Cosmesis Assessment Rating Scale.

ABSTRACT: The supraorbital craniotomy through an eyebrow incision, referred to as the suprabrow approach, may be used to access intracranial lesions. Though offering good surgical exposure for anterior base cranial lesions, the suprabrow approach has a paucity of studies on its cosmetic outcomes. In this study, we aimed to assess the cosmetic outcomes of suprabrow approach using validated Scar Cosmesis Assessment Rating (SCAR) scale for the first time. Three patients underwent a suprabrow approach for resection of a suprasellar or frontal mass. Their postoperative courses were followed, with specific attention to the cosmetic outcome of their procedures. The SCAR scale was used to determine the cosmetic success of the approach. We found that all 3 patients scored ≤ 5 on the SCAR scale. All 3 resections were successful with no major postoperative complications. The only minor complication was transient hypoesthesia of the ipsilateral forehead that was noted in all 3 patients.This study quantified the positive cosmetic outcomes of a minimally invasive suprabrow approach. The suprabrow approach provides acceptable surgical exposure and access in an appropriately selected patient with anterior cranial base lesions and results in favorable cosmesis. Although transient hypoesthesia in the distribution of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve occurs, the overall benefits of the approach and desirable cosmetic outcomes make the suprabrow approach a good technique to access intracranial lesions in appropriate cases.

Trends in Facial Paralysis Management: A National Survey Study.

INTRODUCTION: Advances in operative management, minimally invasive procedures, and physical therapy have allowed for dramatic improvements in functional and cosmetic outcomes in patients with facial paralysis. Our goal was to evaluate the current trends and practice patterns in the diagnosis and management of facial paralysis by provider demographics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An electronic questionnaire was distributed to members of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS). Practice patterns in the diagnosis and treatment were compared by level of training (fellowship-trained facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon versus non-fellowship trained), practice type (academic and private), practice length, patient volume, and presence of a dedicated facial nerve clinic. The bivariate associations of the outcome variables and the stratification factors were analyzed using 2-way contingency tables and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS: The survey was sent to 1129 members of the AAFPRS. The response rate was 11.7% (n=132). Most respondents were fellowship-trained surgeons (79%) in the academic setting (55%), and most have been in practice for more than 10 years (53%). Practice setting and patient volume were the factors most associated with significant variations in management, including the use of facial paralysis grading scales, photography/videography, patient-reported outcome metrics, as well as differences in both noninvasive and surgical management. CONCLUSION: Based on the present study, several physician demographic factors may play a role in choosing which diagnostic and treatment options are employed for facial paralysis, with practice setting and patient volume appearing to be the 2 variables associated with the most significant differences.

Perfusion dynamics in pedicled and free tissue reconstruction: Infrared thermography and laser fluorescence video angiography.

OBJECTIVE: Preoperative planning, design, and perioperative monitoring of microsurgical free flaps is of paramount importance to successful reconstruction. Infrared Thermography provides an indirect method by which vascular perfusion may be monitored and has previously shown efficacy in detection of cutaneous perforators. In a proof-of-concept study, we assessed the utility of infrared thermography in delineating angiosomes and monitoring for adequate tissue perfusion in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative setting. This technology was compared to conventional indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICG-FA). METHOD: Four patients undergoing locoregional pedicled or free flap reconstruction were assessed using ICG-FA and Forward-looking infrared (FLIR) thermography in standardized conditions. Monitoring of flap angiosomes and tissue perfusion using both fluorescent pixel intensity and thermography was then performed implementing proprietary software. CONCLUSION: Our study is unique in that tissue perfusion intraoperatively was assessed with both thermography and indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICG-FA), which represents a previously established system. We demonstrate that smartphone compatible thermal cameras may be used as an adjunct to clinical exam, as well as other monitoring technologies, providing further information in not only selection of perforators, in the operative setting, but also in the early detection of poor flap viability secondary to microvascular compromise allowing for timely salvage.

Corneal Neurotization in the Setting of Facial Paralysis: A Comprehensive Review of Surgical Techniques.

ABSTRACT: Neurotrophic keratopathy is characterized by decreased corneal sensitivity, decreased reflex tearing, and poor corneal healing resulting in corneal injury. Without proper sensory innervation, the cornea undergoes continuous epithelial injury, ulceration, infection and eventually results in vision loss. In situations where patients have concomitant facial paralysis, such as after resection of a large vestibular schwannoma, the ocular health is further impaired by paralytic lagophthalmos with decreased eye closure and blink reflex, decreased tearing, and potential lower eyelid malposition. In patients with a dual nerve injury, the ocular surface is in significant danger, as there is increased environmental exposure in conjunction with the inability to sense damage when it occurs. Immediate recognition and care of the eye are critical for maintaining ocular health and preventing irreversible vision loss. The first modern corneal neurotization procedure was described in 2009. The ultimate goal in corneal neurotization is to establish sub-basal plexus regeneration via transferring a healthy nerve to the corneo-limbal region. Corneal neurotization can be achieved either via a direct transfer of healthy nerve (direct approach) or via nerve graft interpositions (indirect approach). This is an emerging concept in the treatment of neurotrophic/exposure keratitis and over the past decade multiple direct and indirect approaches have been described in the attempt to restore corneal sensation and to prevent the devastating outcomes of neurotrophic keratitis. Knowledge of these techniques, their advantages, and disadvantages is required for proper management of patients suffering from neurotrophic keratitis in the setting of facial paralysis.

Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Implications in Craniomaxillofacial Trauma and Head and Neck Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: The global COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. Our review serves as a safety resource based on the current literature and is aimed at providing best-practice recommendations. Specifically, this article is focused on considerations in the management of craniomaxillofacial trauma as well as reconstructive procedures after head and neck oncologic resection. METHODS: Relevant clinical data were obtained from peer-reviewed journal articles, task force recommendations, and published guidelines from multiple medical organizations utilizing data sources including PubMed, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, and Google search queries. Relevant publications were utilized to develop practice guidelines and recommendations. CONCLUSIONS: The global COVID-19 pandemic has placed a significant strain on health care resources with resultant impacts on patient care. Surgeons operating in the head and neck are particularly at risk of occupational COVID-19 exposure during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and must therefore be cognizant of protocols in place to mitigate exposure risk and optimize patient care.

Intranasal Bolsters: A Novel Technique for Nasal Bone Stabilization.

Nasal bone stabilization, in the setting of comminuted nasal fracture or surgical osteotomy, represents a challenging surgical experience. Postoperative shifting of osseous fragments may result in compromised outcomes in an otherwise well-performed procedure. Although prior studies have reported nasal bone fixation with implementation of wires, plates, or halos, these techniques are often difficult to employ routinely. Herein, the authors describe a novel and facile technique for the maintenance of unstable nasal bones using customized intranasal bolsters.

Trends in the Treatment of Bell's Palsy.

The aim of the study is to: (1) evaluate national trends in care of facial paralysis, namely Bell's palsy, patients to identify the types of treatments patients are receiving and treatment gaps and (2) identify if newer, more complex surgical therapies published in the literature are being employed. Data were collected from the MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters Database by Truven Health. From the database, all inpatient and outpatient claims with International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification diagnosis codes for facial paralysis/dysfunction between 2005 and 2013 were extracted. Trends in medical and surgical management were evaluated specifically cataloging the use of steroids, antivirals, botulinum toxin, surgical and rehabilitation service current procedural terminology codes. A total of 42,866 of patients with a formal diagnosis of Bell's palsy were identified with 39,292 (92%) adults and 3,754 (8%) children (< 18 years old), respectively. Steroids were provided to 50.1% of children and 59.8% of adults and antivirals were prescribed to 26.2 and 39.4% of the children and adults, respectively. Within the first 2 years after diagnosis, 0.5% of children and 0.9% of adults received surgery, 0.1% of children and 0.8% of adults received botulinum toxin treatments, and 10.9% of children and 21.5% of adults received rehabilitation services. Despite the limitations of a claims database study, results showing trends in care of facial paralysis are still nonsurgical with many patients receiving no treatment at all. Although limited literature has shown an increase in the use of pharmacotherapy as well as techniques including physiotherapy, chemodenervation, and various surgical therapies, these interventions may be underutilized.

Depression Rates After Facial Paralysis.

INTRODUCTION: Facial paralysis (FP) has many functional consequences with a large impact on daily life. Although an association with FP and depression has been observed and described in the literature, there are currently no large-scale studies to further validate this correlation. Our goal was to determine whether patients with FP become depressed at a higher rate compared with matched controls. METHODS: We performed a retrospective cohort study using MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters Database by Truven Health. From the database, all inpatient and outpatient claims with International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification diagnosis codes for FP and depression between 2005 and 2013 were extracted. Patients younger than 18 years were categorized as children and those 18 years or older as adults. Patients were subcategorized as having a history of depression if a diagnosis of depression preceding a diagnosis of FP was noted. We matched each patient to a control in the MarketScan database based on age, sex, and state of residence. We compared rates of depression between these patients and matched controls using conditional logistic regression. The method of Kaplan and Meier was used to estimate cumulative incidence curves of depression by each group. RESULTS: Approximately 57,941 patients were identified with International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, codes for FP. Among children and adult patients without a diagnosis of depression before the index date for FP, 6.4% (285) and 9.7% (4733), respectively, had a diagnosis of depression within 2 years of the diagnosis of FP. Matched controls showed depression rates within 2 years of 3.9% for children (P < 0.001) and 6.1% for adults (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The present study adds to the current body of knowledge on FP and depression given its large sample size and analysis of adult and pediatric populations over 2 years. Indeed, we found that depression rates were significantly increased in both adults and children as compared with matched controls. Our results suggest a need for long-term depression screening in patients with FP.

Rejuvenation of the Upper Face and Brow: Neuromodulators and Fillers.

Facial aging involves a combination of volume loss and descent, loss of skin elasticity, dynamic lines due to facial mimetic muscle action, and development of static rhytids. Although surgery remains an option for treatment, minimally invasive aesthetic procedures continue to gain popularity with the use of neuromodulators and soft tissue fillers being the most sought-after procedures. Although these may be used in isolation to treat specific concerns, they are often combined to address multiple facets of aging. Multiple different neuromodulators and fillers are commercially available. Although relatively effective and safe, a thorough understanding of their indications, compositions, and potential adverse effects is paramount. This article will review the available aesthetic products for minimally invasive periorbital rejuvenation with botulinum toxin and injectable fillers. Although it will not focus on other therapies aimed at facial rejuvenation, such as resurfacing techniques or surgical interventions, it is important to note that an individualized treatment plan may combine multiple therapies to optimize patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Impact of a History of COVID-19 Infection on Postoperative Outcomes for Free Flap Patients.

Objectives: This study examines the impact of a history of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection on patients' outcomes after microvascular free flap surgery and to examine the recommendations on when to perform microvascular surgery after a COVID-19 infection. Methods: A retrospective chart review using the TriNetX database was completed on March 5, 2023. Two cohorts were created: (1) patients who had a positive COVID-19 diagnosis within 1 year before microvascular free flap surgery, and (2) patients with no history of COVID-19 who underwent free flap surgery. Current Procedural Terminology codes were used to identify procedures and International Classification of Diseases-10 codes were used to identify outcomes. Results: There was a total of 31,505 patients who underwent microvascular free flap surgery, 500 of whom had a diagnosis of COVID-19 within 1 year of free flap surgery and 31,005 without history of COVID-19. There was increased risk of sepsis, surgical site infection (SSI), generalized infection, gangrene, dehiscence, hematoma, seroma, intensive care unit admission, and death in patients who underwent free flap surgery within a year of COVID-19 infection. After propensity score matching, there were 498 patients in both groups. Increased risk remained for SSI and gangrene in patients with a history of COVID-19 after matching. When comparing surgical timing between 0 to 2 months after COVID-19 infection and 2 to 12 months after COVID-19 infection, there were no significant differences between groups. Conclusions: After propensity score matching, patients with a history of COVID-19 infection were at increased risk for SSI and gangrene. However, many flap surgeries cannot be delayed. This study may help counsel patients regarding the possible complications after surgery and provide a heightened awareness in the surgical team of a possible increase in infectious complications in this population. Additional studies should investigate optimal timing of free flap surgery after COVID-19 infection and ways to mitigate the risk of infectious complications.

Approach to Major Nasal Reconstruction: Benefits of Staged Surgery and Use of Technology.

This article reviews special considerations in complex nasal defects including treatment of adjacent subunit defects, timing of repair with radiation, reconstruction in patients with prior repairs or recurrent disease, and the role of prosthetics. The role of technological advances including virtual surgical planning, 3 dimensional printing, biocompatible materials, and tissue engineering is discussed.

Utility of Antibiotic Use in Pediatric Facial Fractures: A Systematic Review.

Background: In regard to antibiotic stewardship, it is important to understand the appropriate time to prescribe antibiotics in pediatric facial fracture management. Objective: To evaluate the utility of antibiotics in pediatric facial fractures and determine situational variables influencing appropriate antibiotic prescription. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases for articles published from 2000 to 2022. Inclusion criteria consisted of all studies assessing pediatric facial fractures that mentioned antibiotic use. Results: A total of 13 studies were included in the full review. The reviewed studies comprised 31 pediatric patients ranging from 6 months to 18 years old. Most studies were case reports and case series (N = 9). Antibiotics were prescribed for the majority (96.7%) of patients. Antibiotic regimens varied by timing of administration, antibiotic used, and dosage. Fracture locations also varied widely, including orbital, zygomatic, nasal, mandibular, and maxillary fractures. Conclusions: Additional studies with more substantial evidence are needed to fully understand the situational appropriateness of antibiotic use in pediatric facial fractures.

Impact of COVID-19 on facial plastic surgery volumes: A large database analysis of pre- and post-pandemic trends.

Objective: During the COVID-19 pandemic, elective surgeries faced cancelations due to quarantine measures. The objective of this study was to assess facial plastic and reconstructive surgery (FPRS) volume before, during, and after the height of the pandemic on a national scale. Methods: The TriNetX Research Network identified 68,101,098 individuals aged 18+ with healthcare interactions from 2017 to 2022. Rates of common FPRS surgeries and procedures were compared during March-August of each year, aligning with the pandemic lockdown. Results: Compared to immediately before the pandemic in 2019, the 2020 pandemic peak saw an overall surgical volume reduction of -36.8%, with specific surgeries decreasing significantly: rhinoplasty (-28.6%), septoplasty (-34.0%), rhytidectomy (-54.9%), blepharoplasty (-40.7%), brow lift (-43.8%), ectropion/entropion repair (-35.6%), repair of blepharoptosis (-45.6%), correction of lagophthalmos (-29.9%), correction of lid retraction (-36.8%), and lipectomy (-41.8%) (p < .001). The procedural volume also decreased by 28.6%, encompassing reductions in various procedures: botulinum toxin A (-18.7%), facial filler (-40.7%), dermabrasion (-62.3%), chemical peel (-36.6%), and intralesional injection (-33.3%) (p < .001). In contrast to 2020, 2021 witnessed an increase of +75.0% in total surgical and +61.3% procedural volume: rhinoplasty (+81.0%), septoplasty (+74.7%), rhytidectomy (+143.4%), blepharoplasty (+81.7%), brow lift (+64.5%), ectropion/entropion repair (+55.2%), repair of blepharoptosis (+62.7%), correction of lagophthalmos (+39.0%), correction of lid retraction (+73.0%), lipectomy (+121.2%), botulinum toxin A (+52.4%), filler (+59.6%), dermabrasion (+91.8%), chemical peel (+78.8%), and intralesional injection (+67.3%) (p < .001). In 2022, rates of total surgeries (+8.5%) and procedures (+12.8%) surpassed pre-pandemic levels from 2019 (p < .001). Conclusions: FPRS experienced significant pandemic-induced decreases, followed by a notable recovery in subsequent years, with certain surgeries and procedures surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Level of Evidence: 4.

Training Program Factors Most Important to Women When Selecting an Otolaryngology Residency.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to determine factors that female resident physicians find most influential when choosing an otolaryngology residency program. METHODS: A three-part survey was sent to current female otolaryngology residents via email evaluating the importance of 19 characteristics impacting program choice. The 19 factors were scored from 1 (least important) to 5 (most important). The participants also ranked their personal top five most influential factors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS: One-hundred and fifty of 339 contacted residents participated. Most were aged 30-39 (63%), white (70%), and married (43%). Eighty-five percent had no children, and 52% did not plan to have children during residency. The highest scoring factors derived from Likert scale ratings included resident camaraderie (4.5 ± 0.8), resident happiness (4.4 ± 0.8), and case variety/number (4.4 ± 0.8). The lowest scoring factors were number of fellows (2.9 ± 1.1), attitudes toward maternity leave (2.7 ± 1.3), and maternity leave policies (2.4 ± 1.2). The top five most influential factors and the percentage selecting this were resident camaraderie (57%), resident happiness (57%), academic reputation (51%), case variety/number (47%), and early surgical/clinical experience (44%). Gender-specific factors were infrequently selected. However, 51 (34%) ranked at least one gender-specific factor within their top five list. CONCLUSION: Non-gender-related factors, like resident camaraderie and surgical experiences, were most valued by women. Conversely, gender-specific factors were less critical and infrequently ranked. Ninety-nine residents (64%) rated exclusively gender-neutral characteristics in their top five list of most influential factors. Our data offer insight into program characteristics most important to female otolaryngology residents, which may assist residency programs hoping to match female applicants. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA Laryngoscope, 134:600-606, 2024.

Evaluation and Treatment Planning for the Aging Face Patient.

Facial aging is a multifactorial process that occurs due to alterations in the skin, soft tissue, and bony skeleton. When considering treatments for the aging face and neck, a multifaceted approach targeting each of these areas should be considered. Although surgical intervention remains a key component to the holistic care of the aging face patient, a multitude of minimally invasive techniques is now available to optimize the care of the patient seeking rejuvenation. Proper patient evaluation and counseling on realistic expectations are critical and will be discussed here. A brief overview of common minimally invasive treatments will be presented.

Utilizing Virtual Surgical Planning and Patient-Specific Cutting Guides as an Adjunct in Microtia Repair with Autologous Costal Cartilage Graft.

Virtual surgical planning (VSP) has been applied to many aspects of head and neck reconstruction. We describe the use of VSP to create auricular templates in addition to cartilage cutting and suturing guides for microtia repair in two patients with unilateral and bilateral grade 3 microtia. Both patients had satisfactory aesthetic results. This technique allows for increased precision, may decrease operative time, and good cosmetic outcomes.

Botulinum Toxin A in the Management of Pediatric Sialorrhea: A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE: Botulinum toxin A is known to be effective and safe in managing sialorrhea in pediatric patients; however, there is no consensus on a protocol for optimal injection sites and appropriate dosing for injection. METHODS: This review was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocol. PubMed, EMBASE, and other databases were queried to identify articles that evaluated botulinum toxin type A for the treatment of sialorrhea in the pediatric population. A total of 405 studies were identified. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 31 articles were included for review. RESULTS: A total of 14 studies evaluated 2-gland injections, and 17 studies evaluated 4-gland injections. Of the 31 studies included, one study assessed incobotulinumtoxinA (Xeomin®) the remaining all used onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox®). For 2-gland injection studies, a combined total of 899 participants were reviewed, where 602 participants received 50 units into their submandibular glands, while 262 participants received 30 to 50 units. Among 4-gland injection studies, there was a combined total of 388 participants, with the most prevalent dosage utilized being 60 to 100 units in 230 participants, followed by 100 units total in 77 participants. The most common adverse event was dysphagia which resolved in nearly all cases. Three studies aimed to examine 2-gland versus 4-gland injections, with 2 of the studies concluding 4-gland injection was superior. CONCLUSIONS: The strength of evidence suggests that the dosing of 50 units total of onabotulinumtoxinA to the submandibular glands is safe and effective in the pediatric population. For 4-gland injections, bilateral submandibular and parotid gland injections of 60 to 100 units total is the safe and effective dosage. There is no substantial evidence comparing 4-gland injections to 2-gland injections, but research thus far suggests 4-gland injections to be superior. Future study is needed to evaluate incobotulinumtoxinA and abobotulinumtoxinA dosages in the pediatric population.