Comparison of the diagnostic methods used in maxillofacial trauma

Plast Reconstr Surg. 1985 Jan;75(1):32-41. doi: 10.1097/00006534-198501000-00007.

Abstract

A prospective study was performed to evaluate the diagnostic methods used in acute maxillofacial trauma. Clinical examination, routine facial x-rays with linear tomography, and computer tomography were compared in 49 patients. Computer tomography was found to be the most accurate test in the diagnosis of facial bone injury, especially complex fractures. Computer tomography also provided valuable information regarding soft-tissue injury of the face. The radiation doses of linear tomography and computer tomography were calculated to be below the level known to cause cataract formation. Computer tomography is a safe, reliable adjunct in the diagnosis of acute maxillofacial trauma and should be strongly considered after initial screening measures are completed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Maxillary Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Maxillary Fractures / surgery
  • Maxillofacial Injuries / diagnosis*
  • Maxillofacial Injuries / diagnostic imaging
  • Maxillofacial Injuries / surgery
  • Middle Aged
  • Nasal Bone / injuries
  • Orbital Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Orbital Fractures / surgery
  • Physical Examination
  • Prospective Studies
  • Skull Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Skull Fractures / surgery
  • Surgery, Plastic
  • Tomography, X-Ray
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed