Facial Trauma in Southwestern Nigeria: Epidemiology, Patterns, and Outcomes - A Comprehensive Analysis from Ekiti State
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64229/qgpjmt05Keywords:
Facial injury, Trauma, Road traffic accident, Complications, Management, NigeriaAbstract
This study examined the demographic characteristics, aetiology, clinical features, complications, and management outcomes of facial injuries among patients presenting to a tertiary healthcare facility in Ekiti State, Nigeria. A prospective study was conducted over six months involving patients with facial injuries. Data were collected from all age groups presenting with facial injuries at the Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Department. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to identify associations between variables, with statistical significance determined at p < 0.05. A male predominance (85.2%) was observed, with the majority aged 21-30 years (37.7%). Road traffic crashes (47.5%) were the leading cause of injuries, followed by assaults (21.3%) and domestic accidents (14.8%). Most patients presented with facial soft tissue injuries (93.4%), with common clinical features including facial pain (95.1%) and nasal blockage (62.3%). Complications occurred in a notable proportion of patients, with wound infections reported in 9.8% of cases. Significant associations were observed between age groups and aetiology (p-values: 0.001-0.034), and between education levels and injury types (p < 0.05). Management strategies primarily comprised conservative treatment (36.1%) and soft tissue repairs (31.1%). The findings demonstrate the predominant occurrence of facial injuries in younger males, primarily attributable to road traffic accidents. These data underscore the urgent need for targeted preventive strategies and improved management protocols, emphasizing the importance of multidisciplinary approaches in addressing facial trauma complexity. The results provide critical insights for policymakers and healthcare professionals aiming to enhance trauma care and prevent facial injuries within this demographic.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Waheed Atilade Adegbiji, Khadijat Ayomide Adegbiji, Moruf Babatunde Yusuf, Mary Okon, Michael Olumide Gbala, Olaniyan David Oladunjoye, Busayo Olakunle Bamgbose, Akorede Temilola Adeoye, Debola Tayo Ibirongbe, Fatai Olatunji Sule, Ezekiel Oyeniyi Oyewole (Author)
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