Facial Trauma

Facial Bone Fractures

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The most frequently facial fractures seen are the nasal bones, zygomatic bones (cheekbones), maxilla (upper jaw), and mandible (lower jaw).

Nasal fractures are the most prevalent, often caused by a direct impact to the nose. These fractures can lead to pain, swelling, bruising, and breathing difficulties due to nasal obstruction or deviation.

Zygomatic fractures typically occur from lateral impacts to the face. These fractures can cause flattened cheek contours, difficulty with jaw movement, and sensory disturbances due to infraorbital nerve involvement. Severe cases may lead to vision problems if the eye socket is affected.

Maxillary fractures, particularly midface fractures (Le Fort fractures), can result from high-impact trauma and are classified into three types based on the location and severity. They cause facial asymmetry, dental malocclusion, and significant swelling. Such fractures often require surgical intervention to restore the facial structure and function.

Mandibular fractures are common in facial trauma, often occurring from blows to the jaw or chin. They can present with pain, swelling, difficulty opening the mouth, and misalignment of the teeth (malocclusion). Mandibular fractures may be single or multiple and often require stabilisation through plating to ensure proper healing and function. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to restoring both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the facial skeleton.