title: Equine-related facial fractures.
abstract: Horseback riding is a common recreational activity that can cause injuries to both mounted and dismounted participants. This study examines the patterns of equine-related maxillofacial fractures presenting in a tertiary referral centre. Patients presenting over an 11-year period from 1996 to 2006 with equine-related maxillofacial fractures were identified through the trauma database. The extent of the injuries, surgical treatment and follow-up details were documented. 45 patients were identified, with an increasing incidence over the study period. 69% were male and 31% female. 31% of patients were 16-30 years of age. 73% of fractures were in the midfacial region. 67% of patients were actively treated, with 60% of these patients requiring internal fixation. 64% of patients were hospitalized. Equine-related maxillofacial fractures frequently involve a young and predominantly female population, compared with facial fractures due to other causes. Midfacial fractures were the most common site of injury. Alcohol was rarely implicated. A high proportion of patients required surgery and hospitalization.
authors.affiliation: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Unit, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand. klee1@gmp.usyd.edu.au
authors.forename: K H
authors.initials: KH
authors.lastname: Lee
authors.forename: L J
authors.initials: LJ
authors.lastname: Steenberg
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D017677:Age Distribution; D000368:Aged; D000818:Animals; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000145:classification* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D002648:Child; D005147:Facial Bones / Q000293:injuries*; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods*; D006736:Horses; D006801:Humans; D015601:Injury Severity Score; D007899:Leisure Activities; D008297:Male; D008446:Maxillofacial Injuries / Q000145:classification* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D008875:Middle Aged; D017678:Sex Distribution; D055815:Young Adult