Epidemiology and management of maxillofacial fractures treated at Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 1998-2003.

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the pattern, causes and management of maxillofacial fractures at the Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam.

METHODS

The medical records and radiographs for patients treated for maxillofacial fractures over a 5-year period (1998-2003) were retrieved. Data on the patients' age, sex, cause and type of injury, treatment modality, and post-operative complications were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 314 patient records of 261 (83.1%) males and 53 (26.9%) females were retrieved (ratio m:f = 3:1), age range 2-70 years, with most (41.4%) in the 20-29 year age group. Most of the fractures occurred in the mandible 222 (70.7%). The distribution of maxillary fractures was Le-Fort I in 10 (66.7%). Most fractures were caused by assault 181 (57.6%) followed by falls 62 (19.7%), motor traffic accidents 43 (13.7%) and sports 25 (8%). Most of the mandibular (98.2%) and zygomatic arch fractures (62.5%) were managed by closed reduction, compared with alveolar bone fractures that were predominantly managed by open reduction. Complications occurred in 17 (5.4%) patients and were mostly infections.

CONCLUSION

The causes and pattern of maxillofacial fractures reflect trauma patterns within the community and, as such, can provide a guide to the design of programmes geared toward prevention and treatment.