Global trends in maxillofacial fractures.

Background The etiology, demographics, fracture site in facial injury patients have been reported worldwide. However, few studies have attempted to identify changes in maxillofacial fractures over time periods and between countries. The statistics are vastly different due to variations in social, environmental, and cultural factors. Methods Data were collected from departmental records between 1996 and 2006 for patients treated at Christchurch Hospital for facial fractures. Variables examined included incidence, demographics, site of fracture, and treatment methods. Results A total of 2563 patients presented during the study period, 1158 patients in the first half and 1404 patients in the second half. Male-to-female ratio was 4:1 in both periods and males in 16- to 30-year group accounted for about half of all patients. Interpersonal violence was the most common cause of injuries, and there was a decrease in injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents. Approximately half of all patients required hospitalization and surgery, and the most common method of treatment was open reduction and internal fixation. Conclusion Maxillofacial fracture is a common injury in young males following interpersonal violence in New Zealand. Studies in other countries and over different time periods yield interesting differences in the etiology, demographics, and fractures patterns. These are due to environmental, societal, cultural, and legislative differences.