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Understanding maxillofacial trauma

Maxillofacial trauma may involve fractures of the mandible, maxilla, cheekbone, nose, orbit or other parts of the facial skeleton. Injuries may occur after road traffic collisions, falls, sports injuries or other accidents.

Facial fractures can affect both appearance and essential functions. The relationship between the upper and lower teeth, jaw movement, vision, breathing and sensation may all be relevant, depending on the site of injury. A complete assessment is therefore important even when the external injury appears limited.

Facial trauma may occur alongside head, neck or other bodily injuries. Immediate safety and stabilisation take priority, and assessment of facial fractures should be coordinated with emergency or trauma services when required.

How the condition is evaluated

Initial assessment focuses on patient safety and associated injuries. Specialist evaluation may include examination of the face, mouth and bite, together with imaging where indicated. Serious injuries may require urgent hospital assessment.

Treatment and surgical options

Not every facial fracture requires surgery. When an operation is indicated, treatment may involve repositioning and stabilisation of fractured bones using appropriate fixation methods. The decision depends on the fracture pattern, displacement, function and associated injuries.

When surgery is needed, the surgeon considers the fracture pattern, displacement, stability, timing of presentation and the patient’s general condition. The objective is to restore suitable alignment and stability while protecting important nerves, teeth, the eyes and other nearby structures.

After treatment, review may focus on wound healing, bite alignment, jaw movement, oral hygiene and return to normal function. The treating team will advise on diet, activity, oral care and follow-up according to the injury and procedure.

What patients should know

A patient with a significant facial injury should seek urgent medical assessment. Do not delay emergency care to arrange a routine appointment.