Pattern of traumatic maxillofacial injuries among the young adult Qatari population during the years 2006–2009. A retrospective study

Abstract

PurposeTo analyze the frequency and patterns of maxillofacial injuries in a young adult Qatari population, and to provide a reference point to improve health strategies in an attempt to reduce the incidence of these injuries. Patients and methodsThis is a retrospective study of young adult maxillofacial trauma patients, holding the Qatari nationality, treated in Hamad Medical Corporation during a 4year period (2006–2009). The files and radiographs of patients enrolled were retrieved, reviewed, and analyzed. The following data were collected: the patient’s file number, age, gender, date and time of injury, mechanism of injury, details of maxillofacial injuries, associated injuries, hospital stay, intensive care stay and treatment modality. ResultsA total of 46 Patients’ files were reviewed, 43 males and 3 females. The motor vehicle collisions constituted the highest incidence as a cause of traumatic maxillofacial injuries, and assault was found to be present only among the age group between 17–20years, more than half the patients presented with isolated maxillofacial injuries (56.5%).Four of the patients were found to have GCS of 8 or lower. Total of 12 (26%) patients stayed in the hospital for more than 10days two cases deceased, and two cases were shifted to the long term care unit for physical rehabilitation, while the other cases were discharged home. There was significant correlation between the FISS score and the outcome (p<0.0001). On the other hand we could not correlate FISS score with hospital stay, mechanism of injury or gender. ConclusionsMotor vehicle collision is the major cause of injuries in young Qataris. Maxillofacial and associated injuries are frequently encountered. Active treatment is indicated in almost half of the patients. A proximately one tenth of the group of patients included in this study, suffered from injuries that resulted in either needing long term rehabilitation services or death.