The patterns and etiology of maxillofacial trauma in South India

Background: Maxillofacial trauma is any physical trauma to the facial region, commonly encountered by maxillofacial surgeons, and is often associated with high morbidity. Maxillofacial injuries can occur as an isolated injury or may be associated with multiple injuries in other parts of the body. Aim: This study aims to assess the patterns, etiology, and management outcomes of maxillofacial trauma in a teaching hospital in Chennai, South India, over an 8-year period. Methods: Patients with maxillofacial injury were identified using the department database and clinical records. Nine hundred and forty-four patients were identified with maxillofacial trauma in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery between January 2009 and December 2017. Results: The mean age of the patients was 30 ± 12 years. Of the 944 patients with maxillofacial injuries, 64% had isolated lower face (mandibular) fractures, followed by isolated midface fractures (19%). Road traffic accidents were the most common form of etiology for trauma. Conclusion: The etiology and pattern of maxillofacial injuries reflect the trauma patterns within the community and can thus provide a guide to help design programs toward prevention and treatment.