Epidemiological study of Le Fort fractures

• Grant number: 24/20804-1
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Principal Investigator: Alexandre Elias Trivellato
• Grantee: Alexandre Elias Trivellato
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto (FORP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Samuel Macedo Costa

Abstract

Facial trauma is one of the leading causes of death before the age of 40 and significantly impacts work productivity, surpassing diseases such as cancer and heart problems. Fractures in the middle third of the face, especially Le Fort fractures, are common and complex, mainly caused by traffic accidents, physical attacks, and sports trauma. The prevalence and etiology of these injuries vary depending on the social and economic context, influenced by factors such as unemployment and substance use. The severity of facial fractures depends on anatomical characteristics and factors such as the force and location of impact. Diagnosis is made through physical examination and imaging tests, with computed tomography being the main method for evaluating the extent of fractures. Treatment involves reducing fractures, fixing bone segments, and restoring dental occlusion. Epidemiological studies help to improve the treatment and prevention of these injuries. The present study will investigate cases of Le Fort-type facial fractures treated in the Residency Course in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at FORP-USP between 2002 and 2024, collecting demographic, clinical, and treatment variables, to compare the protocol used in the Course, with that described as the gold standard. (AU)