Prevalence and aetiological factors of maxillofacial trauma in a rural district hospital in the Eastern Cape
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Date
Authors
Pillay, Lingeswara
Mabongo, Mzubanzi
Buch, Brian
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
South African Dental Association
Abstract
AIM : To determine the prevalence, aetiological factors
and demographic data of patients presenting with injuries
sustained from maxillofacial trauma over a six month
period at Zithulele Hospital.
MATERIALS AND METHODS : In a retrospective, descriptive
study, data collected and analysed included records of
all patients who had suffered maxillofacial trauma, their
demographics, clinical features and the aetiology. The
radiographic records were assessed by a maxillofacial
surgeon and a radiologist for a diagnosis as well as gaining
opinions regarding the types of fractures observed.
RESULTS : A total of 239 patients sustained maxillofacial
trauma. The most common aetiological factor was
interpersonal violence (55%) followed by road traffic accidents
(16%), falls (10%), animals (4%) and other causes (2%). The
male to female ratio was 2.6:1 and the 18-24 years age group
endured the most trauma. A total of 210 (88%) patients
sustained soft tissue injuries while 29 (12%) experienced
hard tissue injuries, with 39 fractures diagnosed. A total of
165 maxillofacial radiographs were assessed, 37% were
diagnostically acceptable, 56% had poor diagnostic value
and 7% had no diagnostic value.
CONCLUSION : Maxillofacial trauma is prevalent in rural parts
of South Africa. Males aged 18-24 years are frequent victims,
with interpersonal violence being the major aetiology.
Description
Keywords
Patients, Injuries, Maxillofacial trauma, Zithulele Hospital, Prevalence, Aetiological factors, Demographic data
Sustainable Development Goals
Citation
Pillay, L., Mabongo, M. & Buch, B. 2018, 'Prevalence and aetiological factors of maxillofacial trauma in a rural district hospital in the Eastern Cape', South African Dental Journal, vol. 73, no. 5, pp. 348-353.