ORAL MAXILLOFACIAL FRACTURES SEEN AT A UGANDAN TERTIARY HOSPITAL: A SIX-MONTH PROSPECTIVE STUDY

AIM: To investigate the epidemiological characteristics of maxillofacial fractures and associated fractures in patients seen in the Oral Surgery Unit of Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda. METHODOLOGY: A six-month prospective study was conducted. Data collected included socio-demographic factors, type and etiology of injury, additional fractures, and post-surgery complications. RESULTS: One hundred thirty-two ( 132) cases ranging from 5-70 yrs of age were reported, with a male: female ratio of 7.7:1. The 21-30 yr age group was the largest, comprising 51.51% of cases (n=68). Road traffic accidents contributed to 56.06% (n=74) of fractures. In total, 66% of the sample (n=87) suffered isolated mandibular fractures. Symphyseal and maxillary fractures were the most common mandibular and mid-facial fractures, respectively. Among associated fractures, the femur was most affected. A total of 39 (29.54%) of patients had post-operative complications, of which infection accounted for 48.71% (n=19), and malocclusion accounted for 17.94% (n=7). CONCLUSIONS: Anticipated changes in maxillofacial trauma trends necessitate regular epidemiologic studies of facial fractures to allow for development and implementation of timely novel preventive measures.