Athletic facial injuries
R. C. Schultz and D. L. de Camara
Most facial injuries that occur during athletic activities are of a minor
nature, consisting of lacerations, contusions, and abrasions. These are
usually treated by a team physician or an emergency department physician.
However, minor injuries must be differentiated from the more significant
injuries, especially those involving facial bone fractures. Significant
facial trauma must be diagnosed accurately and treated with precision to
avoid permanent facial deformity. Soft-tissue trauma as well as fractures
are included in this review, and evaluation of the injured athlete is
emphasized. A systematic approach is developed for diagnosing and treating
common facial injuries in athletes.
