Maxillofacial trauma refers to any injury to the face or jaw caused by physical force, foreign objects, or burns.
Maxillofacial trauma includes injuries to any of the bony or fleshy structures of the face.
There are no reliable statistics on the incidence of maxillofacial trauma because there are so many types and many are not reported.
Around 30,000 cases of maxillofacial trauma occur each year in the United States. These injuries can result from various causes such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, assaults, and sports-related injuries. Treatment for maxillofacial trauma may require a multidisciplinary approach involving oral and maxillofacial surgeons, plastic surgeons, and other specialists.
Teeth may be knocked out or loosened.
Burns to the face are also categorized as maxillofacial trauma.
The lower jaw (mandible) may be dislocated by force.
Trauma is usually diagnosed in an emergency room or physician's office by physical examination and/or x ray.
A fractured nose or jaw may affect the ability to breathe or eat. Any maxillofacial trauma may also prevent the passage of air or be severe enough to cause a concussion or more serious brain injury.
Safety equipment is vital to preventing maxillofacial trauma from automobile accidents and sports.
People most at risk are athletes, anyone who drives a vehicle or rides in one, and those who do dangerous work or engage in aggressive types of behavior.
A Maxillofacial surgeon is a surgeon that has specialized in operating the face and jaws.
Roszalina Ramli has written: 'Atlas of craniomaxillofacial trauma' -- subject(s): Atlases, Maxilla, Craniocerebral Trauma, Handbooks, manuals, Face, Maxillofacial Injuries, Handbooks, Surgery, Wounds and injuries, Physical Examination, Soft Tissue Injuries, Intensive Care, Methods