Pattern and Aetiology of Mandibular fractures at Kenyatta National Hospital

Abstract

Objeclive:To determine the aetiology and pattern of mandibular fractures among trauma patients at the oral surgery clinic of Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). Design: A retrospective hospital based study. Setting: Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). Subjects: 250 trauma patients referred to the oral surgery clinic at KNH for the management of mandibular fractures. Methods: From the daily work register of the oral surgery clinic at KNH, names of patients presenting with mandibular fractures were sought from 31" May 1998 backwards till a sample size of 250 was attained. The outpatient and inpatient records were retrieved and the information relevant to this study including aetiology, sex, occupation and the pattern of mandibular fractures was obtained and recorded in a specially designed data collection form. Results:lnterpersonal violence was the leading cause of mandibular fractures (61 %). The body of the mandible was more affected by fractures (26%) and the peak age of incidence was 21-40 years. The left side was more affected than the right side and males were more affected than females (4.6:1). Conclusion: Interpersonal violence was the leading cause of mandibular fractures with a peak age of incidence of 21-40 years. Preventive measures should be aimed at reducing interpersonal violence by ensuring the public is protected by the government through the police department. Road traffic accidents should also be reduced by road safety campaigns and by active input from the traffic police department.