Combined trauma in craniomaxillofacial and orthopedic-traumatological patients: the need for proper interdisciplinary care in trauma units

AIM: The primary aim of this study was to analyze frequency and characteristics of combined facial and peripheral trauma with consecutive hospitalization and treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included all patients with concomitant orthopedic-traumatolgical (OT) and craniomaxillofacial (CMF) injuries admitted to our level I trauma center in 2018. The data were collected by analysis of the institution’s database and radiological reviews and included age, sex, injury type, weekday and time of presentation. All patients were examined and treated by a team of surgeons specialized in OT and CMF directly after presentation. RESULTS: A total number of 1040 combined OT and CMF patients were identified. Mean age was 33.0 ± 26.2 years. 67.3% (n = 700) were male patients. Primary presentation happened most frequently on Sundays (n = 199) and between 7 and 8 pm (n = 74). 193 OT fractures were documented, where cervical spine injuries were most frequent (n = 30). 365 facial and skull fractures were recorded. 10.8% of the 204 patients with fractures of the viscerocranium presented with at least one fracture of the extremity, 7.8% (16/204) with cervical spine fractures, 33.3% (68/204) with signs of closed brain trauma and 9.8% (20/204) with intracranial hemorrhage. DISCUSSION: The study shows a high frequency of combined facial with OT-injuries and brain damage in a predominantly young and male cohort. Attendance by interdisciplinary teams of both CMF and OT surgeons specialized in cervical spine trauma surgery is highly advisable for adequate treatment. CONCLUSION: Diagnostics and treatment should be performed by a highly specialized OT and CMF team, with a consulting neurosurgeon in a level-1 trauma center to avoid missed diagnoses and keep mortality low.