Maxillofacial trauma in major trauma patients

Background: Trauma has been identified as a major public health problem in Australia. Maxillofacial trauma constitutes a significant proportion of trauma, although epidemiological studies in Australia are few. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence and the epidemiological pattern of maxillofacial trauma occurring in major trauma patients. Methods: Data were obtained from the Victorian State Trauma Registry, which included all major trauma patients in Victoria. All data relating to maxillofacial trauma defined according to Abbreviated Injury Scale and International Classification of Diseases codes from 1 July 2001 to 30 June 2004 were selected. Data collected included demographic and injury details, and operative procedures carried out. Results: Sixteen per cent of major trauma patients sustained maxillofacial trauma. The highest frequency of injuries occurred in the 15-24 years age group. More males were affected than females (3:1). The majority of injuries were due to transport-related causes (69 per cent) and occurred mostly on roads, streets or highways (70 per cent). Falls were the cause of 15 per cent of injuries, 10.5 per cent of these injuries were fatal while 20.7 per cent needed rehabilitation. The most common type of bony injury was a fractured maxilla. Conclusion: The need for preventive strategies to be reinforced has been highlighted as transport-related injuries remain high especially in the younger age groups.