Midface fractures

[摘要] Introduction:midface fractures are a serious medical problem due to their complexity, frequencyand socioeconomic impact. Objective:conduct a literature review about the anatomical considerations, diagnosis,classification, treatment and complications of midface fractures. Methods:A literature review was conducted in September 2016. The evaluation includedhigh impact journals from the Web of Science (25 journals) and 2 books. Thedatabases MEDLINE, PubMed and SciELO were consulted, using the descriptors "maxillaryfracture", "treatment", " lefort fracture". Papers writtenin English in the last five years were included. Of the 98 papers obtained,the study considered 40. Data analysisand integration: the middle third of the face is characterized by anatomicalweakness, since it is formed by scantily protected spongy bone with multiplesutures. There are many classifications for midface fractures, and diagnosisis based on clinical findings, particularly ophthalmological, which alongsidethose of auxiliary diagnostic devices, make it possible to choose the most appropriatetherapeutic mode and prevent complications. Conclusions: the anatomical characteristics of the facial middle thirdjustify the frequency and impact of these fractures. Diagnosis should be basedon interrogation, physical examination and the use of auxiliary diagnostic imaging,mainly tomography. Upon classification of the fracture, a treatment plan maybe devised based on individual assessment of each case to prevent future complications.

[学科分类] 基础医学

[关键词] bone fractures;fracture fixation;maxilla.