Epidemiology and management of maxillofacial fractures treated at Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 1998-2003.

Background: This study investigated the pattern, causes and management of maxillofacial fractures at the Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam.

Methods: The medical records and radiographs for patients treated for maxillofacial fractures over a 5-year period (1998-2003) were retrieved. Data on the patients' age, sex, cause and type of injury, treatment modality, and post-operative complications were reviewed.

Results: A total of 314 patient records of 261 (83.1%) males and 53 (26.9%) females were retrieved (ratio m:f = 3:1), age range 2-70 years, with most (41.4%) in the 20-29 year age group. Most of the fractures occurred in the mandible 222 (70.7%). The distribution of maxillary fractures was Le-Fort I in 10 (66.7%). Most fractures were caused by assault 181 (57.6%) followed by falls 62 (19.7%), motor traffic accidents 43 (13.7%) and sports 25 (8%). Most of the mandibular (98.2%) and zygomatic arch fractures (62.5%) were managed by closed reduction, compared with alveolar bone fractures that were predominantly managed by open reduction. Complications occurred in 17 (5.4%) patients and were mostly infections.

Conclusion: The causes and pattern of maxillofacial fractures reflect trauma patterns within the community and, as such, can provide a guide to the design of programmes geared toward prevention and treatment.