Maxillary fractures

• The maxilla forms a bridge between the cranial base and dental occlusal plane - functionally and cosmetically important structure
• Fracture of these bones is potentially life-threatening as well as disfiguiring
• Mechanism of injury: high-energy blunt force trauma to the facial skeleton

Orbital floor fractures

Clinical features

• Pain, decreased visual acuity, diplopia
• Hypoaethesia in infraorbial region
• Periorbital ecchymosis
• Oedema
• Enopthalmos
• Restriction of ocular movement
• Bony step of orbital rim

Investigations

• CT: 'tear drop' sign indicates blow-out fracture

Management

• Conservative
• Surgical repair of bony walls if there is entrapment, a large defect, or significant enopthlamos

Midfacial fractures