SPORTS-RELATED FACIAL INJURIES

Facial injuries in the athlete range from soft-tissue abrasions, contu sions, and lacerations to severe disturbances of underlying structures including nerves, ducts, and the facial skeleton. Accurate examinatio n and physical diagnosis is stressed and common patterns of injury are discussed as they relate to the athlete. The treatment plans presente d emphasize first aid, appropriate initial management and definitive m anagement when indicated, and indications for referral to a plastic su rgeon.