Patricia Griffin Kellicker, BSN
Skull and facial fractures are broken bones of the head and face.
There are two major types of skull fractures:
Facial fractures can occur in any of the face’s bones. This includes:
These fractures are potentially life-threatening conditions. They require immediate medical treatment.
Skull and/or facial fractures are caused by injuries. Most commonly from:
This type of fracture occurs most often in accidents.
These will depend on the location and extent of the injury. Your doctor will look for the following:
You will most likely be taken to a hospital. A doctor will ask about your symptoms and how your injury occurred. A physical exam will be done. A neurological exam will evaluate your nervous system. Tests may include the following:
Treatment will depend on the location and extent of the injury. Call 911 if you have a head injury.
The first steps will be focused on stabilizing your injury. It may include:
Treatment options include the following:
Surgery for this type of injury will depend on the type of injury. It may include drilling burr holes in the skull to release pressure or fixing the broken bones surgically.
If the jaw is broken it may need to be wired.
If there is a collection of blood in the brain, called a hematoma, it may need to be removed. Surgery may take place right away or later once swelling has subsided.
People with these fractures usually need to stay in the hospital. Serious injuries may need to be watched in an intensive care unit. Some people with facial or skull fractures need to have help breathing. A tube is inserted and mechanical ventilation is used to protect and assist breathing.
To help reduce your chance of fracturing your skull or face, take the following steps:
of Emergency Physicians.
Brain Injury Association of America
Emergency Medical Services for Children
of Neurological Disease
Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians
Trauma Management Group
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Last reviewed November 2012 by Igor Puzanov, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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