Maxillofacial Injuries in Counter Proxy War Posture of the Armed Forces.

BACKGROUND

Various maxillofacial injuries, sustained in counter insurgency operations in the counter proxy war posture (CPWP) of the Armed Forces in the Kashmir valley are being treated at various maxillofacial surgical centres.

METHOD

Proper triage, documentation of injuries and mode of injuries along with various clinical, radiological and other investigations were carried out before operating these individuals for primary reconstruction of skeletal tissue and facial soft tissue.

RESULT

A total of 324 persons with various types of maxillofacial injuries were treated within the period ranging from 01 January 2000 to 30 June 2002 successfully in this centre as a part of the advanced trauma life support (ATLS) system of Combat Medical Support.

CONCLUSION

Proper primary reconstruction (soft tissue and skeletal tissue) of the facial region goes a long way in reducing subsequent disfigurement and morbidity. Improving the structural design of the combat head gear for safety and comfort will go a long way in preventing majority of maxillofacial injuries or can at least reduce the severity of these injuries.