NASAL BONE FRACTUR

b j e c t i v e : To analyze modes of presentation, types of the nasal fractures and their management. Setting and Period:From 01 Apr 2006 to 31 Mar 2007 at Frontier Corps Hospital, Quetta. Patients and methods: This descriptive study consists of 50 patientsof both sexes and all age groups, managed for nasal bone fractures, presented in emergency as well as in outpatient department. Selectionof cases was non probability, convenient type. All patients were admitted in the hospital for evaluation and further management. Every caseof nasal fracture was properly evaluated, assessed and was managed accordingly. Diagnosis was based on proper history, thorough clinicalexamination and radiological confirmation. Results: From this study it was concluded that adults (80%) were affected more than children.Highest incidence was seen in the age group 18-30 years (46%). The male to female ratio was 3:1. The main aetiological factors in adultswere Sports injuries (30%), personal falls (24%), road traffic accidents (22%) and interpersonal assaults (20%) and in children personal falls(24%). Most of the patients (90%) presented within 2 weeks of the nasal trauma. Epistaxis (92%), nasal deformity (76%), pain andtenderness (72%) and nasal obstruction (70%) were main clinical features. Closed reduction under general anaesthesia (80%) was the mostcommon and effective treatment awarded and complications were minimal. Three cases who presented after 1 year of trauma were treatedby Septorhinoplasty (1), Septoplasty(1 )and SMR(1). 14%(7) patients were treated conservatively. Conclusion: Nasal bone fractures shouldnot be considered minor injuries until they have been thoroughly assessed. Closed reduction under GA is most effective treatment for thepatients presenting within 2 weeks of injury. Prognosis of un-complicated nasal fractures, in general, is good and they heal within 2-3 weekswith good cosmetic and functional results.