Management of facial trauma

Unfortunately interpersonal violence, motor vehicle accidents and sporting activities are common causes of significant facial injury in Australia.

The severity and pattern of injury can be directly related to the level of force involved in the traumatic event. Injuries can include the skull, eye socket and midface involving the cheek bone as well as the lower jaw. Patients present with a closed head injury where there can be loss of consciousness or even more significant brain injury. Vision can be affected, as well as change in appearance and alteration in a patients bite.

Management of facial trauma not only involves the acute stage for immediate reconstruction but long term management which may involve secondary procedures to rehabilitate the patient back to their normal form and function.