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Maxillofacial fractures in older patients
Kazuhiko Yamamoto1, Yumiko Matsusue, Kazuhiro Murakami
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan. kazuyama@naramed-u.ac.jp
Summary
Maxillofacial fractures in older adults are increasing, with falls being the most common cause. Treatment trends show a rise in observation, open reduction, and internal fixation for these injuries.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Maxillofacial fractures present unique challenges in older adults due to physiological changes and comorbidities.
- Understanding epidemiological trends is crucial for optimizing patient care and resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the evolving trends and characteristic features of maxillofacial fractures in patients aged 65 and older.
- To identify common etiologies, fracture patterns, and treatment modalities in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 247 patients aged 65+ treated for maxillofacial fractures between 1981 and 2010.
- Data collection included patient demographics, injury mechanisms, fracture locations, and treatment approaches.
Main Results:
- Falls on a level surface (126 cases) and traffic accidents (84 cases) were the leading causes.
- Mandibular fractures (140 cases), particularly condylar and body fractures in edentulous patients, were most frequent, followed by midface fractures (90 cases), primarily involving the zygoma.
- Observation was the most common management strategy (127 patients), especially for older individuals, followed by open reduction and internal fixation (46 patients) and maxillomandibular fixation (41 patients).
Conclusions:
- Maxillofacial fractures in the elderly population are on the rise.
- Etiology, fracture patterns, and treatment strategies demonstrate distinct characteristics in older patients, necessitating tailored management approaches.
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