Maxillofacial Injury Patterns in Road Traffic Accidents- Clinical and Radiological Evaluation

To know the clinical signs and radiological findings of different types of maxillofacial fractures following facial trauma in road traffic accidents. In this retrospective study, the medical records and computerized tomography scans of 100 patients who have sustained facial fractures in road traffic accident during 2021-2022 were reviewed at Raichur Institute of Medical Sciences, Raichur; for maxillofacial fractures. Data was tabulated and statistically analysed using SPSS software version 21. 100 patients who have sustained maxillofacial injuries in road traffic accident were included in the study. Male to female ratio was 8:1. Most common age group involved was 21-30 years. Maximum number of accidents occurred during night and 38% contributed to driving under the influence of alcohol. Clinical examination findings ranged from simple abrasion, swelling/odema/haematoma, contusion to lacerations and loss of tissue. Of 66 patients with Ear Nose Throat (ENT) bleed, 26 had ear bleed, 34 had nose bleed and 17 had oral cavity bleed. Maximum individuals in the study had orbital fractures (44%). 45% had associated head injury. 30 patients had associated injuries of upper limbs, 25 had lower limb injuries and 8% had blunt trauma. 47% patients required neurosurgical intervention, 44% ophthalmology, 39% faciomaxillary surgeon intervention. Maxillofacial injuries following road traffic accidents are more common as face is the most exposed part of the body. Managing patients with road traffic accidents requires multi disciplinary approach. Safety precautions while driving like use of driving accessories, following traffic rules plays major role. This study will help the policy makers to evolve a better trauma care program by focusing on the target groups and introducing cost effective preventive measures.