Frontal sinus fractures: a 28-year retrospective review.
OBJECTIVE
To analyze 202 consecutive frontal sinus fracture (FSF) patients treated between 1974 and 2002 at the University of California, Davis.


METHODS
A retrospective chart review was performed, including all patients with frontal sinus fractures from 1987 to 2002. This and 72 previously reported patients (1974-1986) were analyzed, comparing age, gender, fracture type, associated fractures, procedure type, and complications.


RESULTS
Frontal sinus fractures resulting from motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) decreased from 71% to 52% (P < 0.05). Fractures from assaults increased from 9% to 21% (P < 0.05). The incidence of "through and through" fractures decreased from 40% to 11% (P < 0.05). Whereas combined anterior/posterior table fractures increased from 36% to 57% (P < 0.05).


CONCLUSIONS
The etiology and severity of FSF has changed from 1974 to 2002. This is reflected in a reduced number of fractures resulting from MVAs as well as a reduced severity of injury. The most likely explanation is the use of safety belts and airbags.
Strong
E Bradley
EB
Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, 2521 Stockton Blvd, Ste 7200, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
Pahlavan
Nima
N
Saito
David
D
D000063:Accidents, Traffic; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002140:California / Q000453:epidemiology; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D005626:Frontal Sinus / Q000293:injuries*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012622:Seat Belts; D012887:Skull Fractures / Q000150:complications / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000601:surgery; D014754:Violence