Acute facial trauma in falling accidents: MDCT analysis of 500 patients

Emerg Radiol. 2008 Jul;15(4):241-7. doi: 10.1007/s10140-008-0717-2. Epub 2008 May 15.

Abstract

The aim of this study is to assess multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) findings of facial trauma due to a falling accident. Using picture-archiving and communications system, we retrieved all MDCT requests for suspected facial injury during a 62-month period. Images were interpreted by two researchers. Five hundred patients met the inclusion criteria and 329 (66%) had a total of 515 fractures. Falls on stairs were seen in 109 (22%) patients and slips or trips in 391 (78%). The corresponding number of fractures was 169 (33%) and 346 (67%). Males (N = 241) had more fractures than females (N = 259), 327 vs. 188, respectively. The zygomatic complex was the most common fracture, seen in 40% of patients suffering a fracture. Twenty patients (4%) had fractures involving the sinus walls without paranasal sinus effusions. Facial fractures due to falls are common. The zygomatic complex is the most common fracture. A clear sinus sign may be less reliable than previously thought.

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls*
  • Acute Disease
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Facial Bones / diagnostic imaging
  • Facial Bones / injuries
  • Facial Injuries / diagnostic imaging*
  • Female
  • Fractures, Bone / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*