Etiology and Management of Zygomaticomaxillary Complex Fractures in the Armed Forces

The nature of duties in the Armed Forces predisposes its personnel to various kinds of injuries. The rise in violence coupled with an exponential increase in motorized population has contributed towards maxillofacial injuries. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence, cause and pattern of various injuries resulting in fracture of the zygomaticomaxillary complex in Armed Forces personnel and their families.

A study was conducted between January 2001 - December 2002 in maxillofacial surgical wing of an Army Dental Centre with specific regard to age, sex, location and etiology of zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture. Out of 201 maxillofacial injuries received, 87 individuals were treated for zygomaticomaxillary fractures. Majority of the individuals were in their third decade of life and road traffic accident was the leading cause of the fractures.

Uneventful recovery was there in 81 individuals (93.10%). Six patients (6.89%) had post operative complications in the form of enophthalmos, hypophthalmos, paraesthesia, diplopia and facial asymmetry. These complications were subsequently treated successfully as a secondary procedure for all the patients.

Facial bones, especially of the middle third of the face, are composed of a network of fragile bones which give way in case of force to a lesser extent than other parts of the body. It is imperative to educate people regarding the importance of restraints and use of protective headgears/use of seat belts while travelling in motorized transport.