Temporal distribution of alcohol related facial fractures

Publication date: Available online 19 September 2017
Source:Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology
Author(s): Kai Lee, Michael Qiu, Jiandong Sun
ObjectivesAlcohol intoxication as a common concomitant factor in facial fractures is well reported. However, less has been described on its temporal pattern of presentations. Studies have found such pattern to be dependent on factors such as seasonal climate variations, timing of social, leisure and sporting activities, and road traffic conditions.Study DesignThis study retrospectively examined the Victorian admitted episodes data-set (VAED) between year 2010 to 2013. VAED is a standardised set of data collected during all hospital presentations in Victoria.ResultsThe study found higher incidence of alcohol-related facial fracture presentations during weekends and during summer and spring months when compared with non-alcohol related fractures (statistically significant). Alcohol-related facial fractures are more likely to involve male patients in 20-29 year age group, occur as a result of interpersonal violence and require shorter hospital stay during weekend admissions (statistically significant). There are no statistically significant relationship observed in seasonal variation across all variables.ConclusionsThis study found distinct characteristics in temporal distribution of alcohol-related facial fractures. These characteristics are in particular significant in weekend trauma admissions. Such information is important in workforce planning, resource distribution and implementation of injury prevention programs.



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