Age differences in responses to facial trauma

In: Special care in dentistry: SCD, Band 8, Heft 3, S. 115-118

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis study examines age differences in causes, characteristics, and outcomes of facial trauma seen in a major trauma hospital. A retrospective analysis was undertaken of 615 cases of facial trauma that had occurred during a 5‐year period. The greatest proportion of patients were aged 20 to 29; those older than age 60 represented just 6.8% of the total cases. Gender differences were not observed in the oldest age groups. The oldest patients (older than 70 years) were more likely to have had pedestrian accidents and less likely to have been assaulted than other age groups. Older patients had more multiple injuries but fewer treatment procedures than other age groups. Significant differences were found in death rates; the older patients were more likely to die as a result of their injuries. Implications for patient management based on age and treatment needs are discussed.