(0242) Patterns of Facial Trauma from Motor Vehicle Accidents Among Older Individuals

Introduction: While facial fractures from motor vehicle collisions (MVC) are well-documented, their patterns in the elderly remain unclear. This study aims to explore the epidemiology, injury patterns, and outcomes in individuals over 65.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed facial fracture cases post-MVC at a single institution from July 2022 to March 2023, analyzing demographics, trauma characteristics, management, and outcomes. Elderly and nonelderly patients were compared with univariable analysis (R 4.2.2; significance set at p > 0.05).

Results: The study included 254 patients, with 20 elderly (median age: 69.5, 75% male) and 234 nonelderly (median age: 33, 77.4% male). Elderly patients predominantly had midface fractures, especially zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures (60%), more frequent than in nonelderly (p = 0.0103). Nonelderly patients commonly had mandibular fractures (18.4%). No significant difference was observed in soft tissue injuries, symptoms, airway status, or antibiotic use. However, elderly patients had longer hospital stays (average 12.4 vs 8.88 days, p = 0.0023), higher in-hospital mortality (25% vs 4.3%, p < 0.001) and were less frequently discharged home (45% vs 74.7%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Elderly individuals exhibit unique facial fracture patterns after MVCs, with longer hospitalizations and greater mortality compared to younger patients. These findings underscore the necessity for age-adjusted treatment protocols and preventive strategies in trauma care.