Epidemiological importance of motorcycle and bicycle crashes in the current context of oral and maxillofacial trauma in southern Brazil

• Published in: Revista odonto ciência 2015, Vol.30 (4)
• Main Authors: Fernando Viegas Pacheco, Luiz, Viapiana Paes, Jefferson, Gerhardt de Oliveira, Marília, Feliz de Moraes, João, Miranda Pagnoncelli, Rogério, Dourado Poli, Vladimir
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0102-9460; 1980-6523
• DOI: 10.15448/1980-6523.2015.4.15863

Abstract Purpose: Epidemiological studies exhibit regional variation patterns as the result of local demographic and socioeconomic factors. This study assessed the epidemiology of maxillofacial fractures treated at a trauma center in Southern Brazil to identify the importance of motorcycle and bicycle crashes. Methods: The records of 2261 patients admitted between April 2003 and March 2013 were reviewed. Results: The male-to-female ratio was 5.6:1. The peak incidence occurred in the third decade of life. Bicycle and motorcycle crashes accounted for 20% of all reported etiologies. Mandibular and orbitozygomatic complex fractures were most prevalent. The most common treatments were open reduction with rigid internal fixation and conservative therapy. Overall, 1248 patients (55.9% of recorded admissions) had a length of stay of 7 days or less. Conclusion: Countrywide prevention projects and the use of alternative transportation should be encouraged.