analysis of maxillofacial fractures in AKUH

ABSTRACT

A retrospective study was undertaken to assess the maxillofacial fractures occurring over a period of 18 months [i.e. from January 1, 1989 to June 30. 1989 and from January 1, 1990 to December 31. 1990], at the Aga Khan University Hospital. Data collected included age, sex, etiology, anatomical site of the fracture, associated medical problems, morbidity and mortality. One hundred and fifty fractures in 108 patients were analyzed. The patients were divided into groups according to age. Highest incidence of fractures occurred between 21 to 30 years of age. The male to female ratio was 5.71. The main etiological factor was road traffic accidents [65%], followed by falls [16.6%] and assault [7.4%]. The middle third of the facial skeleton alone was mainly involved [54.6%]. The incidence of mandibular fractures was 31%. While a combination of mandible and mid facial fractures occurred in 14.0% of cases. Closed reduction was undertaken in 43.5% of cases, a combination of closed and open approach using direct bone wiring and/or bone plates was employed in 9.2% of cases. Open reduction and fixation was performed in 5.5% cases while conservative management was adopted in 35% of cases