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Dog-Bite Injuries to the Craniofacial Region: An Epidemiologic and Pattern-of-Injury Review at a Level 1 Trauma
Khurram Khan1, Bruce B Horswell2, Damayanti Samanta3
1Formerly, Fellow, Cleft and Craniomaxillofacial Surgery, Charleston Area Medical Center, Charleston, WV; Currently, Private Practice, Cincinnati, OH.
Summary
Dog bites are causing more severe craniofacial injuries, especially in young children and girls. Pit bull terriers and other breeds are frequently involved in unprovoked attacks, highlighting public health concerns.
Area of Science:
- Trauma surgery
- Public health
- Veterinary medicine
Background:
- Dog bites represent a significant public health concern, particularly for vulnerable populations.
- Craniofacial injuries from dog bites require specialized surgical management.
- Understanding injury patterns and risk factors is crucial for prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence, etiologic factors, and demographic characteristics of craniofacial dog-bite injuries.
- To identify trends in injury severity and patient populations.
- To inform prevention efforts for healthcare providers, educators, and policymakers.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective observational and descriptive review of 182 patient records.
- Data collected from a regional level 1 trauma center's maxillofacial surgery section.
- Information sourced from existing dog-bite databases, electronic health records, and animal encounter records.
Main Results:
- A trend toward more severe injuries, particularly in younger children, was observed.
- Girls experienced a higher incidence of bites than boys, with specific breeds like pit bull terriers causing complex wounds.
- Young children sustained more extensive facial injuries, including fractures, necessitating operating room management and longer hospital stays.
Conclusions:
- Dog bites are increasingly causing severe craniofacial injuries in young children, with a notable rise in incidents involving girls.
- Certain dog breeds, including pit bull terriers, German shepherds, Rottweilers, and huskies, are associated with more severe and unprovoked attacks.
- The study underscores public health implications of aggressive breeds and home-environment risks, emphasizing the need for targeted prevention strategies.
