Chapter
8:
Craniomaxillofacial Trauma
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Chapter
8: |
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Craniomaxillofacial Trauma
Post-Traumatic Facial Deformities
Clefts
of the Lip and Palate
Trauma
Reconstruction
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Millions of people sustain trauma to the
head and face resulting in complex fractures which, if not correctly
diagnosed and treated, may cause permanent functional and cosmetic
deformities. During the past decade, advances in radiographic
procedures, the utilization of craniofacial surgical techniques, and the
advent of rigid miniplate fixation have tremendously improved the
functional and aesthetic results in facial fracture management.
The accurate diagnosis of facial fractures has been greatly improved by the addition of two- and three-dimensional CT scans which have replaced the plain radiographs for the diagnosis of many types of fractures. The three-dimensional reconstructions have enhanced preoperative bone analysis and planning by providing a life-like simulation of the fractures. In acute trauma cases, the goal of reconstruction is a one-stage repair which has been made possible by the application of craniofacial techniques. Delayed treatment has been replaced by early or immediate surgical treatment and stabilization of small bone fragments augmented by bone grafts and miniplate fixation. These recent advances have allowed surgeons to approach and often reach the goal of restoring preinjury facial appearance and function while at the same time minimizing revisional surgery. Without treatment in a timely manner, many individuals will develop future problems, the severity and consequences of which can be much greater than if the injury had been immediately repaired. However, modern craniofacial surgical techniques can now offer hope for patients with pre-existing post-traumatic facial deformities despite considerable delays between injury, diagnosis, and treatment. These innovative techniques establish a higher standard of care for the management of facial injuries.
The following pages describe the different areas and types of facial fractures:
The Tennessee Craniofacial
Center, part of the Erlanger Health System, is located in Chattanooga,
Tennessee. The Center, led Larry A. Sargent, M.D., specializes in the
evaluation and treatment of patients of all ages with craniofacial deformities.
Location:
975 East Third Street. Chattanooga, Tennessee 37403
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