A review of the aetiology of facial fractures seen at a major trauma centre

Introduction : King’s College Hospital, a major trauma centre in South East London, covers a diverse population. We compare the aetiology of facial fractures we see to that of the rest of the UK.

Methods : A retrospective search of the A + E database (Symphony) for three months in 2011 was performed; all patients with facial fractures were included. Data extracted included detailed aetiology and patient demographics.

Results : In total 126 patients with facial fractures were identified. 64% of injuries (81 patients) were caused by assault; significantly higher than national data. 64% of these had mandibular fractures; 25% orbital fractures. A quarter had alcohol prior to the assault; 4% had used drugs. Only 4% were documented as being related to mugging. There were various mechanisms of assault. Punched only 63% (51 patients). Punched and kicked 16% (13 patients). Punched and weapon used 6% (5 patients). Kicked only 1% (1 patient). Head-butted only 3% (2 patients). Un-known 11% (9 patients). Fell or pushed to floor 12% (10 patients). Total involving weapons 14% (11 patients). Weapons included traffic cone, bottle, SCART cable falls accounted for 16% of patients, aged between 22 and 97 years; 100% of 22–39 year olds had consumed alcohol ± drugs. 35% sustained fractured orbits; 50% fractured mandibles. RTAs accounted for 7% of patients. 70% of patients sustained orbital fractures, none had mandibular fractures.

Conclusion : Assaults account for the majority of patients with facial fractures seen at King’s College Hospital. Alcohol also appears to be a significant factor, particularly in falls and assaults.

Only gold members can continue reading. Log In or Register to continue

Stay updated, free dental videos. Join our Telegram channel

Jan 20, 2018 | Posted by in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery | Comments Off on A review of the aetiology of facial fractures seen at a major trauma centre

VIDEdental - Online dental courses

Get VIDEdental app for watching clinical videos