Repair of Complex Post-Traumatic Facial Dislocations: Indications, Therapeutic Difficulties and Results at Treichville University Hospital, Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire

Abstract

Introduction: Complex post-traumatic facial disfigurements are caused by civilian or ballistic trauma. Their repercussions are functional, aesthetic and psychological. The initial emergency or secondary management of facial damage is difficult. The objective is to report, through the clinical observation of three patients, the results of the management of complex facial dislocations in a context of limited technical resources. Patients and methods: Three complex post-traumatic facial dislocations were managed between May 2006 and June 2017. Results: Primary treatment and secondary repair were established on a case-by-case basis. Local autoplasty was the indication of choice. Multidisciplinary management resulted in satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes. Two of the patients were lost to follow-up before the end of treatment. Discussion: The complete management of facial dislocations remains difficult and complex, in an extreme exercise situation. In an emergency, the priority is to save the life of the injured person. Several factors are involved in the therapeutic decision: the choice of the maxillofacial reconstruction technique, the availability of the technical platform, the financial capacity and the psychological state of the patient and his entourage. Sequential and multidisciplinary treatment gives satisfactory results in terms of morphology, function and aesthetics, despite the limited technical resources available. Psychological support is an essential complement for successful socio-professional and family reintegration.