The Prevalence Of The Mandibular Fracture Due To Traffic Accidents On Motorcycle Riders At H.Adam Malik Hospital In 2013-2015

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The Prevalence of Mandibular Fracture Due to Traffic Accidents on Motorcycle Riders at H. Adam Malik Hospital (2013-2015)

Introduction

Facial bone fractures are a significant cause of disability and death worldwide, with the majority of cases involving the lower jaw or mandibular. The mandible, although the most dense and strong facial bone, is more vulnerable to trauma due to its anatomical form and position. Traffic accidents are the primary cause of mandibular trauma, particularly among motorcycle riders. This study aims to reveal the prevalence of mandibular fractures at H. Adam Malik Hospital during the 2013 to 2015 period, focusing on age, gender, and fracture location.

Background

Traffic accidents are a significant public health concern, resulting in a substantial number of injuries and fatalities. Motorcycle riders are particularly vulnerable to traffic accidents, with the risk of injury or death being higher compared to other road users. The mandibular fracture is a common injury among motorcycle riders, with the majority of cases occurring due to high-speed collisions. The prevalence of mandibular fractures among motorcycle riders is a significant concern, highlighting the need for effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Methodology

This study employed a descriptive methodology, using a total sampling technique to collect data from medical records of patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 56 medical records were analyzed, taken from the outpatient and inpatient medical records at H. Adam Malik Hospital, Medan. The study focused on the prevalence of mandibular fractures among motorcycle riders, with a particular emphasis on age, gender, and fracture location.

Results

The results of the study showed that the prevalence of mandibular fractures due to traffic accidents was higher among men than women. The majority of fracture cases occurred in the recent adolescent age group, between 17 to 25 years. The location of the fracture that was most common was in the symphysis area of the mandibular. These findings reflect that motorcyclists, especially those in this age range, are the most vulnerable groups to mandibular fractures due to accidents.

Discussion

The high prevalence of mandibular fractures among motorcycle riders is a significant concern, highlighting the need for effective prevention and treatment strategies. The use of motorbikes, although practical and economical, often involves high risk, especially if the driver does not comply with traffic safety rules, such as the use of helmets. The right helmet can help protect the head, but not always enough to prevent injury to the jaw.

Driving safety education needs to be improved, especially for teenagers who are the largest motorcycle users. Awareness of the importance of driving carefully and the use of safety equipment can reduce the risk of accidents and, in turn, minimizing the prevalence of mandibular fractures. In addition, further analysis of environmental factors such as road quality, clear traffic signs, as well as the existence of safety facilities such as road barriers and special lanes for motorbikes are also very relevant. By understanding these factors, the authorities can design better policies to improve road safety.

Conclusion

In conclusion, although the mandibular fracture is a serious health problem among motorcycle riders, directed and effective prevention efforts can be carried out through a combination of education, infrastructure improvement, and more stringent law enforcement of traffic violations. Through this effort, it is expected that the incidence of mandibular fractures can be reduced, so as to reduce the level of disability and death due to traffic accidents.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

  1. Improved driving safety education: Driving safety education needs to be improved, especially for teenagers who are the largest motorcycle users.
  2. Use of safety equipment: Awareness of the importance of driving carefully and the use of safety equipment can reduce the risk of accidents and, in turn, minimizing the prevalence of mandibular fractures.
  3. Infrastructure improvement: Further analysis of environmental factors such as road quality, clear traffic signs, as well as the existence of safety facilities such as road barriers and special lanes for motorbikes are also very relevant.
  4. Stringent law enforcement: More stringent law enforcement of traffic violations is necessary to reduce the risk of accidents and, in turn, minimizing the prevalence of mandibular fractures.

By implementing these recommendations, it is expected that the incidence of mandibular fractures can be reduced, so as to reduce the level of disability and death due to traffic accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mandibular Fractures due to Traffic Accidents

Q: What is a mandibular fracture?

A: A mandibular fracture is a break or crack in the lower jawbone, also known as the mandible. This type of fracture can occur due to various reasons, including traffic accidents, falls, or sports injuries.

Q: What are the common causes of mandibular fractures?

A: The common causes of mandibular fractures include:

  • Traffic accidents
  • Falls from a height
  • Sports injuries
  • Physical altercations
  • Other types of trauma

Q: Who is most at risk of mandibular fractures?

A: Motorcyclists, especially those in the age range of 17 to 25 years, are most at risk of mandibular fractures due to traffic accidents.

Q: What are the symptoms of a mandibular fracture?

A: The symptoms of a mandibular fracture may include:

  • Pain or tenderness in the jaw
  • Swelling or bruising in the jaw or face
  • Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
  • Difficulty chewing or swallowing
  • Loose or missing teeth

Q: How is a mandibular fracture diagnosed?

A: A mandibular fracture is typically diagnosed through a combination of:

  • Physical examination
  • Imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans
  • Medical history and symptoms

Q: What is the treatment for a mandibular fracture?

A: The treatment for a mandibular fracture depends on the severity of the fracture and may include:

  • Conservative treatment, such as pain management and jaw exercises
  • Surgical treatment, such as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)
  • Other types of treatment, such as dental implants or orthodontic treatment

Q: Can a mandibular fracture be prevented?

A: Yes, a mandibular fracture can be prevented by:

  • Wearing a helmet and other safety gear while riding a motorcycle
  • Following traffic safety rules and regulations
  • Avoiding physical altercations and other types of trauma
  • Practicing good oral hygiene and dental care

Q: What is the prognosis for a mandibular fracture?

A: The prognosis for a mandibular fracture depends on the severity of the fracture and the effectiveness of treatment. In general, most people with a mandibular fracture can expect to make a full recovery with proper treatment and care.

Q: How can I reduce my risk of a mandibular fracture?

A: You can reduce your risk of a mandibular fracture by:

  • Wearing a helmet and other safety gear while riding a motorcycle
  • Following traffic safety rules and regulations
  • Avoiding physical altercations and other types of trauma
  • Practicing good oral hygiene and dental care
  • Getting regular dental check-ups and cleanings

By following these tips and being aware of the risks and symptoms of a mandibular fracture, you can reduce your risk of injury and promote overall oral health and well-being.