Utilization of Diagnostic Imaging in Dental and Maxillofacial Trauma in Selected Kenyan Hospitals

Abstract

Background: Globally, much has changed in the imaging modalities available to investigate maxillofacial trauma. Nevertheless, the regional practice patterns are highly influenced by availability, affordability and accessibility of imaging services as well as competence in interpreting radiological images and the practice of defensive medicine. The aim was to assess the use of maxillofacial trauma imaging modalities as well as to document patterns of skeletal injuries at selected government-sponsored health facilities in Kenya. Material and Methods: A cross sectional study, done in three health facilities. Results: There were 137 (81.5%) males and 31 (18.5%) females with a mean of 27.73 ± 9.86 years. Commonest aetiology of trauma was interpersonal violence (80, 47.62%) and road traffic crashes (63, 37.50%). The total number of radiological examinations was 250 with a mean of 1.49 ± 0.99 examinations per patient. Plain film radiographs were more (210, 84%) than computed tomographic scans (39, 15.6%). Dental panoramic technique was the most (104, 61.9%) popular. Most participants experienced isolated fractures to the mandible (99, 58.9%) and midface (28, 16.7%). Conclusion: Dental panoramic radiography remained the imaging of choice for mandibular fractures which had the commonest occurrence. There is a shift from the traditional conventional skull radiography to computed tomography in the diagnosis of midfacial fractures. Judicious utilization and prompt provision of affordable services in dental panoramic and computed tomographic scanning at the study centers and other upcoming health facilities are paramount in ensuring timely diagnosis and management of maxillofacial injuries in Kenya.