Background and objectives : Injury scoring systems are useful in assessment, grading and predicting injury severity of the trauma patient. Scoring systems for maxillofacial trauma are however not in popular use. Maxillofacial injury severity score (MFISS by Zhang et al., 2005) and facial injury severity scale (FISS by Bagheri et al., 2006) are among the reported maxillofacial trauma scoring systems. The objective of the present study is to evaluate and compare the MFISS and FISS in predicting injury severity in Indian maxillofacial trauma patients as determined by treatment cost and days of hospitalization.

Methods : A retrospective chart review of 189 trauma patients was done. Patient records including case notes, radiographs and photographs were evaluated by 2 independent observers and scoring was done using MFISS and FISS. Data about treatment cost in Indian rupees (INR) and days of hospitalization were collected individually. Statistical analysis was done using ANOVA with significance level ( P -value) < 0.05.

Results : The mean values for MFISS, FISS, treatment cost and days of hospitalization were 14.04 (SD 9.35), 4.68 (SD 3.15), INR 2312.88 (SD 1399.11) and 4.12 days (SD 1.51) respectively. There was statistically significant difference in treatment cost and days of hospitalization in comparison to both MFISS and FISS scores. Also there was statistically significant correlation between the two scores.

Conclusion : In the scenario of a developing country like India, both MFISS and FISS were predictable indicators of injury severity as determined by treatment cost and days of hospitalization. Further emphasis must be on the routine and rational application of such scoring systems as they not only aid the maxillofacial surgeon in treatment planning and assessing outcomes but also have wider socio-economic implications.

Key words : maxillofacial; trauma; scoring