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Posttraumatic anosmia in craniofacial trauma
D F Jimenez1, S Sundrani, C M Barone
1Division of Neurosurgery, University of Missouri Hospital-Columbia, One Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO 65212, USA.
The Journal of Cranio-Maxillofacial Trauma
|April 1, 1997
Summary
Posttraumatic anosmia, often resulting from craniofacial trauma, affects 7% of patients. Recovery is limited, with only about 10% regaining their sense of smell within 2 years.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Posttraumatic anosmia receives limited clinical attention despite significant implications.
- Patients with craniofacial trauma are at the highest risk for olfactory dysfunction.
Observation:
- The incidence of posttraumatic anosmia is estimated at 7%, increasing with injury severity.
- Risk factors include anterior skull base fractures, frontal lobe injury, dural tears, and CSF leaks.
Findings:
- Functional recovery of smell is estimated at approximately 10%.
- Recovery, when it occurs, can take between 8 weeks and 2 years.
Implications:
- Highlights the need for greater clinical awareness and management of posttraumatic olfactory loss.
- Understanding the pathophysiology and anatomy is crucial for improving patient outcomes.