PATTERN OF ASSAULT RELATED MAXILLOFACIAL INJURIES AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

Objective: To determine the pattern of assault related maxillofacial injuries at a tertiary care hospital during COVID-19 pandemic.

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Dentistry, Jinnah postgraduate medical centre, from Mar 2020 to May 2020.

Methodology: The study was conducted for a period of Two months. Patients reported with Assault-related maxillofacial injuries due to interpersonal violence during Lockdown period, seeking legal advice for dental/ maxillofacial treatment were selected for the study. A well-structured Performa comprising of two sections; the first section addressing the demographic information and second about the information related to maxillofacial injury. The data obtained was analyzed using the SPSS version 25.

Results: Out of the total 41 patients, 11 (26.8%) belonged to a common age bracket of 20-24 years. In 32 (78%) cases, the attacker was known to the victim. Furthermore, direct blow with fist was the most common mechanism of the maxillofacial injury in 32 (78%) patients. Majority, 26 (63.4%) of the victims suffered injuries on the left side of the face. While 34 (82.9%) patients had injuries on the lower third of the face. Moreover on the basis of severity, 18 (43.9%) patients fall under grade 3 of trauma severity score. 32 (78%) patients were treated conservatively, whereas 9 (22%) underwent surgical interventions.

Conclusion: Assault related maxillofacial injuries are most common amongst young adult males during COVID-19 lockdown; this can be attributed to increase in violence in our society.