Facial Fractures Associated With Craniomaxillofacial Trauma in Adults: A Literature Review

Abstract

Craniomaxillofacial trauma includes all injuries to the head, face, and jaw. Among these, facial fractures are particularly significant because of their functional, aesthetic, and emotional impact. They are most frequently sustained by young men and can affect essential functions such as chewing, speaking, and breathing, while also leading to psychological consequences. The purpose of this review was to examine recent scientific literature on facial fractures within the context of craniomaxillofacial trauma, focusing on epidemiology, diagnosis, and management. A bibliographic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect for articles published between 2020 and 2025, in Spanish and English. The inclusion criteria were original publications, systematic reviews, and evidence-based clinical guidelines. Exclusion criteria included duplicates, studies limited to pediatric populations, and those with low clinical applicability. The review incorporated observational studies, narrative reviews, and publications from scientific societies. The findings showed that the most common fracture types were nasal, mandibular, and zygomatic complex fractures. The main causes were interpersonal violence, traffic accidents, and falls, with the latter more frequent among older adults. Computed tomography (CT) scanning remains the imaging modality of choice. Advances in surgical techniques, including virtual planning, intraoperative navigation, and 3D printing, have improved accuracy and reduced complications. Nevertheless, challenges such as malocclusion, facial asymmetry, and postoperative infection persist. The management of facial fractures requires a multidisciplinary, structured approach supported by scientific evidence and technological innovation. Continued improvement in both functional and aesthetic outcomes depends on strengthening professional training, advancing high-quality clinical research, and ensuring equitable access to specialized care.