Incidence and pattern of maxillofacial fractures in the elderly

The results of an audit analysing patients above 60 years and above treated for maxillofacial fractures over a 15-year period at the University College Hospital, lbadan are presented. Of the total number of 1689 patients of all ages treated for facial fractures, 53 (3.1%) were within the age range of the study. The male to female ratio was 1.1:1 and 41 (77.4%) patients were younger than 70 years. Road traffic accidents were the most common cause of facial fractures (58.5%) and the mandible was involved in 91% of cases. Complications were noted in 2 (3.8%) patients. Attention should be paid to update driving courses and home safety instructions in order to reduce the incidence of maxillofacial fractures in the elderly.