Etiology of facial fractures in elderly Finns during 2006-2007.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the present study was to clarify the trauma mechanisms and resulting facial fractures in geriatric patients and to compare them with those of younger adults.

STUDY

DESIGN

A cohort of 117 geriatric patients was compared with 136 patients aged 20 to 50 years. The statistical significance of differences between the age groups was evaluated with χ(2) tests.

RESULTS

Falls on the ground were significantly more frequent among geriatric patients (P < .001), whereas assault was more frequent in controls (P < .001). Accident rates in geriatric patients were significantly higher during the winter months (P = .04). Fractures of the midface in general (P = .001) and of the nasal bone (P = .004) and orbit (P = .015) in particular were more frequent in geriatric patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Age-related factors and preexisting medical problems predispose the elderly to falls and subsequent fractures. Footwear traction devices are recommended during the cold season. Orbital fractures should be strongly suspected in the elderly.