The incidence of sports-related facial trauma in children.

Perkins SW, Dayan SH, Sklarew EC, Hamilton M, Bussell GS. Ear Nose Throat J 2000 Aug;79(8):632-4, 636, 638.

We conducted a survey of physician members of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery to determine the incidence and nature of facial traumas seen in their practices. We solicited information on the anatomic location of each injury, the severity of the trauma, and whether the injury occurred during a sports activity. According to the responses, 21% of facial fractures and 29% of nasal fractures were experienced by patients aged 17 years and younger who were participating in sports. We believe that many such injuries can be prevented with greater use of protective equipment.

Management of simple midfacial fractures, particularly in professional soccer players.

Eufinger H, Heise M, Rarreck T. Sportverletz Sportschaden 2000 Mar;14(1):35-40.

Uncomplicated midfacial fractures represent a frequent and typical injury of soccer-players in oral and maxillofacial surgery. The treatment of these fractures in professional players requires special treatment modalities, especially concerning quick rehabilitation. The examples of a nasal bone fracture, a malar bone fracture and a zygomatic arch fracture in 3 professional soccer players demonstrate the therapeutic principles of these most common uncomplicated midfacial fractures. In this context the fabrication of individual facial masks is presented, which allow an improved postoperative protection and therefore an earlier participation of the player in training and matches.