Fejtrauma

Fejtrauma, often referred to as facial trauma, denotes injury to the face and its underlying structures resulting from blunt or penetrating forces. It encompasses soft tissue injuries such as lacerations, contusions and burns, as well as fractures of facial bones (nasal, maxillary, zygomatic, mandibular and orbital walls) and dental injuries. The term is used in emergency medicine, maxillofacial surgery, otolaryngology and ophthalmology.

Causes include road traffic collisions, falls, assaults and sports injuries. Young adults, particularly males, have higher incidence in many populations. Preexisting dental disease or prior facial injuries can complicate management.

Clinical features vary with injury but commonly include swelling, deformity, tenderness, epistaxis, and wound contamination. Dental misalignment, numbness from nerve injury, impaired vision, or limited eye movement may occur with orbital or infraorbital involvement. A secure airway is a priority in severe cases.

Assessment involves airway, breathing and circulation stabilization, thorough evaluation of soft tissue and dentition, and focused imaging. Facial CT scanning is commonly used to delineate fractures; dental and ophthalmic examinations are often required. Wounds may require irrigation and tetanus prophylaxis.

Management depends on severity and may include wound care, antibiotics for contaminated injuries, and analgesia. Fractures frequently require surgical repair with fixation, while minor injuries may heal with conservative care. Multidisciplinary care, including dentistry and ophthalmology, improves outcomes. Prognosis ranges from full recovery to cosmetic or functional impairment.