Cranio-Maxillofacial Injuries in Mixed Martial Arts

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Ophthalmology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Maxillofacial injuries are a significant concern in combat sports.
• Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) involves high-impact strikes, increasing the risk of facial trauma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail a case of severe maxillofacial trauma with orbital and optic nerve involvement sustained during an MMA match.
• To review existing literature on MMA-related maxillofacial injuries to assess the applicability of preventive strategies.

Main Methods:

• A case report of a professional MMA fighter with complex facial fractures and optic neuropathy is presented.
• A systematic literature review was conducted using Scopus and PubMed databases, focusing on maxillofacial trauma in MMA.

Main Results:

• The case involved open reduction and internal fixation for maxillofacial complex fractures and optic neuropathy.
• Six relevant articles were identified, highlighting common injury patterns in MMA.

Conclusions:

• The literature inadequately addresses MMA-related injuries, particularly those affecting the head, face, and neck.
• Middle facial third and ophthalmic region injuries are prevalent, underscoring the need for enhanced protective measures.