Abstract:

Objective   To investigate the demographic, causes and clinical characteristics of cranio-maxillofacial trauma (CMT) to determine the appropriate treatment. Methods   Among 1265 cases of ENT and/or maxillofacial injury, clinical data of 500 patients accompanied with brain injury were reviewed. Results   In 1256 cases, injuries located at or above the nasal-acoustic line in 388 cases(30.67%) but under the plane in 112 (8.85%). The incidence of brain injury was significantly associated with this plane(P<0.01). In 500 CMT cases, the male to female ratio was 4.1  to 1, with the common ages ranging from 20 to 49. The leading cause of trauma was traffic accident(47.80%). As for brain injury, there were 59.40% concussion, 11.80% brain contusion, and 6.20% intracranial hematoma. According to GCS scoring system, 88.40% belonged to mild injuries and according to GOS prognostic score, and 95.4% recovered well. Conclusion   Male is prone to CMT than females, esp. for young adults. The main reason is traffic accident. The nasal-acoustic line is helpful for the diagnosis. With correct and effective treatment, the death toll will be minimal.

Key words: Maxillofacial,  Ear-nose-throat, Brain injury, Trauma