Effect of Gender and Cause of Injury on Incidence of Cranial Nerves Injuries in Maxillofacial Trauma; A Clinical Study

Objectives: To document the incidence and pattern of cranial nerves injuries that occur in association with maxillofacial trauma for early diagnosis and management. Methods: This study done from April 2012 to April 2013 in AlË—Salaam teaching hospital in Mosul/Iraq. We studied 367 patients presented with maxillofacial trauma. The demographic, medical information and cause of injury are recorded for each patient. Clinical examination of the cranial nerves was done at time of admission. Plain x-ray film, CT scan, electromyography, Hess chart and other investigations were done when clinically indicated. Results: 367 patients presented with maxillofacial trauma included in this study. 57(15.5%) patients presented with cranial nerves injuries. 47(82.45%) patients are males and 10(17.54%) are females. The mean age of the patients is (25 years). 45(78.94%) patients had single nerve injury.12 (21.05%) patients presented with multiple cranial nerves injuries. The facial nerve carries the highest rate of incidence. Conclusions: Cranial nerves injuries most commonly detected in young age group male patients. High velocity missile significantly increase the chance of cranial nerves injuries. Early diagnosis of these injuries essential for better results with less morbidities and residual deformities.