Facial Trauma

Facial appearance and function are important in everyday life. The face is susceptible to injury from penetrating and blunt trauma including MVC, recreational activities, and interpersonal violence. The use of safety devices like seat belts and helmets can help minimize the extent of injury. Understanding the anatomy of the face and traumatic mechanism can be helpful in the treatment and management of patients with facial injuries. A thorough history and physical examination with careful inspection is important. ATLS guidelines, including appropriate airway management, should be followed as facial injuries can also coincide with more severe traumatic injuries that require emergent treatment. CT imaging is the modality of choice when evaluating for facial fractures. Appropriate wound care, including copious irrigation, débridement, and tetanus prophylaxis, should be performed when necessary. Facial injuries may require surgical repair or further outpatient management and multiple specialties including ophthalmology, plastic surgery, otolaryngology, and oral and maxillofacial surgery may participate in a patient’s care.