Aetiology and incidence of facial fractures in adults.

The incidence, aetiology and trends in fractures of the facial bones occurring in the years 1965, 1970, 1975 and 1980 in the Grampian Region of Scotland are reported. A 2.7 fold increase in incidence occurred during this period. Males are seen to be most at risk and an increase in assault and sports-related trauma is seen. Offshore oil exploration developed during this period and its effects are discussed. Attention is drawn to the differences in the aetiology of right and left malar fractures.