SODIUM IMBALANCES AFTER MAXILLOFACIAL TRAUMA: GENERAL SURGERY PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

Abstract
This study underscores the critical link between maxillofacial trauma and sodium imbalances, shedding light on the intricate interplay between craniofacial injuries and systemic electrolyte disturbances. Maxillofacial trauma patients, inherently vulnerable due to the proximity of the maxillofacial skeleton to the brain, are at heightened risk of developing sodium imbalances. The force of impact from high-velocity injuries can induce concussion changes in the brain, precipitating sodium derangements that may evade detection on routine scans. The primary objective of this study was to elucidate the incidence of sodium imbalances in patients following maxillofacial trauma and to discern the prevalence of hyponatremia and hypernatremia in cohorts with or without associated head injuries. Furthermore, the study aimed to delineate correlations between sodium imbalances and pertinent demographic and clinical variables, including age, sex, type of maxillofacial injury, and alcohol habits. A cohort of 300 patients, aged above 5 years, presenting with maxillofacial trauma formed the basis of this investigation. Through meticulous medical history assessments, physical examinations, and comprehensive blood tests, the study captured a holistic profile of each participant. Patients were stratified into distinct groups based on the presence of head injury and the occurrence of sodium imbalances, enabling comparative analyses and correlation assessments. The findings revealed a notable incidence of sodium imbalances, affecting 21% of the patient cohort. Hyponatremia emerged as the predominant electrolyte disturbance, surpassing hypernatremia in prevalence. Notably, patients with significant head injuries exhibited a heightened predisposition to sodium imbalances, with hyponatremia often presenting as an early clinical manifestation. This observation underscores the imperative of vigilant monitoring and prompt intervention in trauma patients, particularly those with concurrent head injuries, to forestall the onset of serious neurological sequelae. Furthermore, the study unearthed a compelling association between alcohol consumption and sodium imbalances, implicating lifestyle factors in electrolyte dysregulation post-trauma. This finding underscores the multifactorial etiology of sodium imbalances and underscores the importance of comprehensive risk stratification in trauma patients. The clinical implications of these findings are profound, emphasizing the paramount importance of regular serum sodium monitoring in maxillofacial trauma patients. Early detection of sodium imbalances facilitates timely intervention, mitigating the risk of adverse neurological outcomes such as central pontine myelinolysis. Moreover, meticulous management of sodium correction is imperative to avert potential complications and optimize patient outcomes. This study underscores the critical significance of sodium balance in the clinical management of maxillofacial trauma patients. By elucidating the epidemiology of sodium imbalances and delineating associated risk factors, this research endeavors to inform evidence-based practices and enhance the quality of care for trauma patients. Moving forward, continued vigilance and interdisciplinary collaboration are paramount to ensure optimal outcomes and mitigate the burden of sodium-related complications in this vulnerable patient population.