Sensitive nerve function measurement in facial trauma: An observational study

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Neurology
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Facial trauma can lead to functional and aesthetic damage, sometimes irreversible.
• Peripheral nerve injuries are a common consequence of maxillofacial fractures.
• Objective evaluation of sensory nerve damage is crucial for patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To objectively evaluate traumatic peripheral nerve injuries from mandibular and midface fractures.
• To assess sensory alterations using silicon monofilaments.
• To correlate injury mechanisms with the severity of nerve damage.

Main Methods:

• Observational, cross-sectional study design.
• Inclusion of 60 patients with maxillofacial fractures from accidents or firearms.
• Evaluation using Semmes Weinstein monofilaments on mental and infraorbital nerves.

Main Results:

• Mandibular nerve damage often involved loss of protective sensation, with preserved deep pressure and pain sensation.
• Firearm-related injuries resulted in the most severe sensory alterations.
• Midface fractures showed significant loss of protective and discriminating sensation for temperature.

Conclusions:

• Monofilament testing is a valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring peripheral sensory alterations in maxillofacial traumatology.
• Objective sensory assessment aids in managing patients with facial trauma.
• Understanding injury patterns can guide treatment and prognosis for nerve injuries.