The patterns and distribution of maxillofacial fractures at Pelonomi hospital

Abstract

Background: Despite large volumes of trauma patients treated, no study has analysed the epidemiology of craniofacial trauma at Pelonomi Hospital. Such studies could provide insight into the aetiologies and treatment modalities of maxillofacial injuries; and allow for development of strategies to ensure efficient and optimal utilization of limited health resources. Aim: To analyse the patterns and distribution of maxillofacial fractures at Pelonomi Hospital (PH). Methods: We designed and implemented a retrospective, descriptive cross-sectional study whose sample consisted of patients treated for maxillofacial fractures at PH, Frees State, South Africa, between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2019. Data was collected from the patient’s clinical and radiographic records. Variables recorded included demographic data (gender, age), aetiology of the trauma, type of fractures and type of treatment provided. The delay in treatment was determined from date of injury to the day of treatment. The referral letters were assessed to determine district from which the patients were referred. Descriptive statistics of frequency and percentage were used to analyse the data. Fischer’s exact test was used to determine the association between the independent and dependent variables. The level of significance was set at a p-value less than 0.05. Results: A total of 307 patients with craniofacial fractures were included in the study. Females constituted 21.8% (n=67) and males were by far the majority of the participants at 78.2% (n=240). Individuals in the 20-29 age group had the most maxillofacial fractures (41.2%) and majority of patients in the study were Black (81.1%). The major cause of these injuries was interpersonal violence (60.9%). Alcohol contributed in 64.50% of the injuries. The most frequent fracture was a mandible fracture (70.7%). Majority of fractures in the study were treated with closed reduction (52%) and the waiting period prior to treatment was found to be 2 weeks. Conclusion: Blunt trauma sustained under the influence of alcohol in young individuals is responsible for majority of maxillofacial fractures at Pelonomi Hospital. Future prospective studies with large patient numbers and post treatment follow up are recommended.