Sports-related maxillofacial fractures over an 11-year period

To investigate the prevalence, anatomic sites, and management of sports-related maxillofacial fractures in New Zealand.

A retrospective analysis of 561 patients presenting with sports-related maxillofacial fractures between 1996 and 2006 was conducted. Variables analyzed included sociodemographic data, cause of injury, site of fracture, and method of treatment.

The mean patient age was 26.2 years, with a male:female ratio of 9:1. Sports-related facial fractures accounted for 21.7% of all fractures, with most of these secondary to rugby (52.0%), cycling (15.3%), cricket (7.1%), and soccer (4.8%). Mandibular fractures were the most frequent presentation (41.4), followed by zygomatic (29.4%) and orbital floor fractures (16.9%). Almost 50% of the patients from each sport required active treatment, with the majority requiring open reduction and internal fixation of the fracture (60.3%). The prevalence of sports-related facial fractures increased between the first 6 years (17.6%) and the next 5 years (25.8%) of the 11-year study period. The March-to-August period had a considerably higher number of fractures compared with the rest of the year.

Nearly 20% of all maxillofacial fractures were sports-related, with most occurring in males. The prevalence of sports-related facial fractures increased over the study period. Most of the fractures involved the mandible and zygoma. Active intervention was required for almost 50% of the injuries.