Management Of Gunshot Injuries in the Maxillofacial Region

The development of firearms heralded a new era in surgery as well as warfare. Evolution of more efficient weapons continues to force surgeons to improve techniques. Similarly, improvement in the management of gunshot wounds to the face has paralleled the advancement of oral and maxillofacial surgery. Firstly, it is essential that we follow the lines of basic management of facial and neck injuries, that is: securing the airway, controlling hemorrhage, identifying the other injuries and preventing an additional injury and repair of the traumatic facial deformities, in that order. Secondly, local/regional radiological investigations (plain radiographs and CT scans) are vital tools in assessing collateral damage. Improvements in imaging and fixation techniques have resulted in an evolution in management, with an emphasis on earlier repair and a focus on improvement in quality of life. Prevention and control of infection are important in the outcome of the treatment success.