Substance use and facial injury

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Public Health
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Substance use is a primary driver of interpersonal violence, resulting in substantial facial injuries among adults and adolescents.
• Substance use negatively impacts injury recovery by affecting healing, patient compliance, immune response, and infection risk.
• High rates of injury recurrence and low treatment-seeking for substance use disorders complicate patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical link between substance use, interpersonal violence, and facial trauma.
• To emphasize the role of oral and maxillofacial surgeons in addressing substance use and related issues.
• To advocate for a multidisciplinary approach to managing patients with substance-related facial injuries.

Main Methods:

• Literature review examining the relationship between substance use, violence, and facial injuries.
• Analysis of the impact of substance use on the healing process and injury recidivism.
• Discussion of the responsibilities of frontline healthcare providers, including oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

Main Results:

• Substance use is a significant pathway to interpersonal violence and subsequent facial injuries.
• Continued substance use impedes recovery through biological and behavioral mechanisms.
• There is a need for improved screening and referral systems for substance use and mental health issues.

Conclusions:

• Oral and maxillofacial surgeons must integrate screening for substance use and mental health concerns into their practice.
• A paradigm shift towards multidisciplinary care is essential for effectively managing patients with substance-related facial injuries.
• Addressing substance use is vital for reducing violence, improving injury outcomes, and preventing recidivism.