Impact of maxillofacial fractures on patients' quality-of-life measures: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of maxillofacial fractures (MFFs) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL).

METHODOLOGY

A systematic literature review was carried out following the MOOSE and PRISMA guidelines. The search was conducted in LILACS, Embase, and PubMed databases alongside manual reference checks, with no date restrictions, including observational studies that assessed HRQoL or OHRQoL in patients with MFFs using validated instruments. Methodological quality was assessed using the JBI checklist.

RESULTS

Twelve studies were included in the analysis, most with a cohort design and male predominance. The results indicated a negative impact of MFFs on HRQoL, especially in the immediate post-traumatic period/immediately after MFF diagnosis, with impairment in domains such as pain, physical function, mental health, and social aspects. OHRQoL was also affected, mainly regarding pain, chewing difficulty, and dietary changes. Although most studies indicated improved quality of life after treatment and recovery, long-term sequelae, such as infraorbital nerve paresthesia, may persist. The review showed heterogeneity among studies regarding geographical origin, methodological design, follow-up periods, and quality of life assessment instruments. Small sample sizes, lack of detailed analysis of socioeconomic and health factors, inadequate control of variables, and the predominance of male patients in some studies limit the generalizability of the findings.

CONCLUSION

MFFs seem to affect patients' HRQoL and OHRQoL, but further longitudinal studies with larger samples and standardized assessments are needed to deepen the understanding of the long-term impact.