Oral and maxillofacial surgeryRetrospective analysis of 314 orbital fractures

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to retrospectively review the orbital fractures treated at our institution, especially epidemiologic aspects, treatment options, and postoperative sequelae.Study DesignThree hundred fourteen patients with orbital fractures treated at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of the Central University Hospital in Asturias (Spain) between 2000 and 2006 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were evaluated by age, gender, etiology, diagnostic tools, fracture pattern, treatment, and complications.ResultsThe most common causes of injury were motor vehicle accidents (29.6%), followed by falls (27.4%). Men in the sixth decade were most affected. One hundred forty-four patients (46%) underwent internal fixation with titanium miniplates, and 17 (5.4%) required orbit floor implants. The most frequent sequelae were infraorbital nerve hypoesthesia (24.5%), enophthalmos (3.8%), and diplopia (2.2%).ConclusionsIn our area of 1 million inhabitants, falls are the second cause of orbital fractures, which can be attributed to the large aged population. Postoperative complications cannot be definitely evaluated until a few months after the surgery.