Characterization of Midface Fractures Incurred in Recent Wars.

摘要

Background: Facial injuries sustained by US military personnel during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have increased compared with past conflicts. Characterization of midface fractures (orbits, maxilla, zygoma, and nasal bones) sustained on the battlefield is needed to improve our understanding of these injuries, to optimize treatment, and to potentially direct strategic development of protective equipment in the future. Methods: The military s Joint Theater Trauma Registry was queried for midface fractures from 2001 to 2011 using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision diagnosis codes. Stratification was then performed, and individual treatment records from Brooke Army Medical Center were reviewed. Analysis of the fracture pattern, treatment, and complications was performed.