[Classification and qualification of nose injuries--clinical and forensic aspects].

INTRODUCTION

Nose injuries are of great importance in ENT and medico-legal practice. The importance lies in the frequency of injuries, diverse approaches to diagnosis, treatment and qualification of injuries used in legal proceedings in court. Objective assessment of health impairements due to an injury, requires knowledge about morphofunctional nasal characterics, therapeutic procedures and medico-legal expertise. NOSE INJURES:

ETIOLOGY AND DIAGNOSIS: Nasal fractures are the most common types of facial fractures which occur in different situations. They are often combined with soft tissue injuries. The diagnosis of nasal injuries involves clinical examination, radiography and nasal endoscopy.

CLASSIFICATION AND THERAPY OF NOSE INJURIES: There are several classifications of nasal injuries depending on pathological findings. The most acceptable one is the modified categorization after Harrison. The treatment of nasal injuries depends on the type of injury and possible complications.

QUALIFICATION OF NOSE INJURIES: Nasal soft tissue injuries, nasal fractures, dislocations and partial dislocations should be assessed at the time of diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Medical assessment of injuries is of utmost importance for legal purposes and regarding medico-legal aspects.