Maxillofacial injuries due to road traffic accidents in Saudi Arabia: a review of incidence, demographic factors & prevention strategies

Background: World Health Organization has estimated that nearly 25% of all injuries fatalities worldwide are a result of road traffic crashes with 90% of the fatalities occurring in low and middle income countries. Trauma in Saudi Arabia is a major public health problem with increasing rates of mortality and morbidity. Objectives: To review the incidence of maxillofacial injuries due to road traffic accidents in Saudi Arabia and to highlight the etiological factors, the current preventive strategies and suggestions to reduce such injuries. Material and Methods: This review was conducted through literature search over a period of 25 years. The key words included in the search include road traffic injuries, maxillofacial trauma, Saudi Arabia. The search was conducted through search engines and which included Google, science direct, pub med. A total of 56 reference articles and web pages were reviewed. 31 of these references are cited in this review. The demographic factors involved in road traffic accidents, the existing legislation in the country as cited in the literature, primary care system and recent advances in management are highlighted in this review article. Conclusion: Trauma is a preventable cause of death, morbidity, depression and unemployment. Simple measures such as seat belt legislation, traffic monitoring, creation of awareness among youth will significantly bring down loss of lives. This will create a better society to live and enjoy life.