An Epidemiological Study Of Mandibular Fractures In Benin-City, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: The mandible is the bone of the lower third of the face. The mobility of the mandible, presence of teeth and its prominence makes it prone to fracture. Despite abundant reports about the incidence, diagnosis, and treatment of mandibular fracture in literature, there is limited knowledge about the specific type or pattern of mandibular fractures in Benin-City, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: This is an observational epidemiological study conducted at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin-City, Nigeria between January 2013 and June 2014. The diagnoses of mandibular fractures were made based on clinical history, signs and symptoms, and a correct interpretation of plain radiographs. Relevant radiographs used include postero-anterior view of the jaws, skull, right and left oblique lateral views of the mandible, and panoramic view. All patients (managed as in-patient or out-patient) with clinical and radiological diagnosis of mandibular fractures were recruited into the study.

Results: More males (57.0%) than females sustained mandibular fractures. Most patients (39.2%) were in their third decade of life, whereas only 1.3% of the study population was aged over sixty years. The implicated aetiologies included motor vehicle accidents (MVA), inter-personal violence, falls, sporting activities and gunshot. MVA contributed (52; 65.8%) of the cases to emerge as the major cause of mandibular fractures. The single most implicated cause of MVA was failed brakes, accounting for 28 (53.9%) of all 52 cases resulting from MVA. The reason(s) for MVA could not be ascertained in 2 (3.9%) cases.

Conclusion: Males are more prone to mandibular fractures. Individuals in their third decade of life are the most likely to sustain a mandibular fracture while MVA remains a major cause of mandibular fractures in patients presenting at Benin-City.