Time is of the essence
Facial trauma includes any physical injury to the face, including fractures of the jaw, upper maxilla, cheekbones (zygomatic bone), eye sockets (orbits), and nose, as well as complex skin lacerations and tooth loss.
Unlike other body fractures, facial bones directly affect vital functions such as breathing, vision, speech, and eating. Prompt evaluation by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon is decisive to prevent permanent complications.
First Aid: What to do immediately?
- Secure breathing: The primary concern with severe facial trauma is ensuring the airway is not obstructed by blood, broken teeth, or soft tissue. Make sure the patient can breathe.
- Control bleeding: Apply direct, gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze over external wounds, avoiding heavy pressure if underlying bone fractures are suspected.
- Apply cold: Placing an ice pack wrapped in a towel on swollen areas helps reduce initial swelling.
- Knocked-out teeth: If a permanent tooth is knocked out (avulsed), handle it by the crown (never the root), rinse gently with water without scrubbing, and place it in milk or saliva. You have about 1 hour for successful reimplantation.
- Seek emergency care immediately: Request evaluation by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon at the hospital emergency center.
Warning Signs of a Fracture
If you notice numbness in the cheeks or lips (nerve involvement), double vision (diplopia) or restricted eye movement, a sudden shift in bite alignment, or feel a step-off in the bone upon gentle palpation, a facial fracture is highly likely.
The Maxillofacial Surgery Approach
Our objective in trauma care is two-fold: restoring flawless function and recovering original facial aesthetics. This is achieved through open reduction and rigid internal fixation, utilizing ultra-small titanium miniplates and screws placed through hidden intraoral incisions or natural skin creases whenever possible.
Prognosis is excellent when care is prompt and specialized. We are equipped to handle complex facial trauma, prioritizing quick recovery and patient well-being.