Facial and orbital injuries

Neurosurgeons and plastic, oral and maxillofacial, ENT and ophthalmic surgeons all share a common interest in craniomaxillofacial trauma, and the optimal care of the patient is best served by a multidisciplinary team. There is a rising incidence of craniomaxillofacial trauma associated with a rise in interpersonal violence in most ‘developed’ societies. Modern surgical management is based on the principles of craniofacial surgery: early one-stage repair, exposure of all fracture fragments by well sited cosmetic incisions, precise internal fixation, immediate bone grafting, and definitive soft tissue management. This contribution emphasizes the initial assessment and management of craniomaxillofacial injuries.