Evaluation of Maxillofacial Injuries by Multi-Detector Computed Tomography -A Hospital Based Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Maxillofacial trauma (MFT) is one of the most common emergencies encountered in the emergency department. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for optimal patient management. This study helps us to understand the role of computed tomography in the detection of simple and complex maxillofacial injuries and further helps in appropriate treatment. This study also focuses on the role of multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) and 3D reconstruction techniques in the comprehensive assessment of maxillofacial injuries.

OBJECTIVE:

To describe the fractures according to the bones involved in the evaluated patients and to evaluate the advantages of 3D and coronal reformatted images over axial images in various facial fractures.

METHODS:

Hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was carried out over a period of 18 months on patients referred to the Department of Radiodiagnosis, Adichunchanagiri Hospital and Research Centre, B G Nagara. Axial CT with multiplanar reconstruction was performed in patients who were referred to the department of Radiodiagnosis for MDCT in case maxillofacial trauma

RESULTS:(Out of 100 patients studied)

• The majority of patients (45.0%) were in the age group of 21-40 years, followed by 40.0% in the 41-60 age group.
• Road traffic accidents (64.0%) were the leading cause of maxillofacial trauma, followed by self-fall injuries and assaults. (36.0%).
• MPR and 3D imaging effectively detected and assessed naso-orbito- ethmoidal fractures (63.0%), maxillary fractures (67.0%), frontal bone fractures (35.0%), and mandible fractures (37.0%).
• Le Fort fractures were identified in 12 patients.

CONCLUSION:

MDCT remains an essential diagnostic tool for evaluating maxillofacial injuries offering high accuracy and reliability. 3D imaging plays a crucial role in detecting and assessing fractures, particularly in complex cases. The study findings align with existing literature, emphasizing the importance of MDCT in trauma assessment. The prevalence of intracranial hemorrhage highlights the need for careful evaluation in trauma cases.