Mandibular fractures associated with domestic violence in calabar, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to analyze the pattern of mandibular fractures associated with domestic violence. METHODS This prospective study was carried out at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) in the Accident and Emergency Centre and Dental and Maxillofacial Clinic between the calendar years of 2005 and 2008 (four years). Only consecutive Dental and Maxillofacial injury cases that sustained mandibular fracture by domestic violence were included in the data collection. RESULTS The ages of patients ranged from 15-42 years with a mean of 30±3.2 years. Majority of the patients were in the second, third and fourth decades of life. There were 52(71.2%) males and 21(28.8%) females with a male- to- female ratio of 2.5:1. There was significant association between social class and type of fracture sustained (χ2 = 14.0, p= 0.0073). Patients in the lower social class were more likely to sustain multiple fractures. The mechanisms of injury were by punching with the fist 41(56.2%), use of weapons 27(37.0%) and kicking with legs 5(6.8%). Majority of the fractures occurred at the angle, 52(31.3%) and condyles, 45(27.1%). All the patients were treated by closed reduction technique. The complications recorded were delayed union, 5(38.4%), infection, 3(23.1%), paraesthesia / anaesthesia of the lower lip, 3(23.1%) and malunion, 2(15.4%). CONCLUSION Mandibular fractures due to domestic violence do occur and constitute part of the cases to be encountered by the practising oral and maxillofacial surgeon who should be cognizant to its surgical and social implication.