Psychological consequences of maxillofacial trauma: a preliminary study

Aims: To identify the prevalence of post-traumatic psychological symptoms after maxillofacial trauma and prognostic factors related to poor outcome. Methods: Thirty-nine patients were assessed within 10 days of injury and 24 again 4–6 weeks later using five standardised self-report measures on each occasion and a short structured interview at the time of initial contact. Results: Specific post-traumatic psychological symptoms were present at initial assessment in 21 patients (54%), with 9 (41%) meeting diagnostic criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder at review 4–6 weeks later. Other psychiatric problems, such as anxiety and depression, were identified by the General Health Questionnaire and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Characteristics associated with poorer outcome included: a previous history of psychological distress; fear of the unknown, and female sex. Conclusion: These findings highlight the adverse psychological effect of maxillofacial trauma both immediately after the event and 4–6 weeks after injury. Proper assessment of injured patients must include psychological aspects and further research is needed to identify the most appropriate response.