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Short report
Return-to-play guidelines following facial fractures
  1. Christopher John Fowell1,
  2. Philip Earl2
  1. 1Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust, University Hospital, Coventry, UK
  2. 2Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, Worcestershire Royal Hospital, Worcester, UK
  1. Correspondence to Christopher John Fowell, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust, University Hospital, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK; cjfowell{at}doctors.org.uk

Abstract

Despite bone healing and the management options of facial fractures being reported at length, there is a lack of evidence-based return-to-play criteria for sportspeople who have sustained these fractures. This shortage of evidence has resulted in a lack of consensus among health professionals. A prospective study of 20 cases of sportsmen who have returned to competitive play 3 weeks after injury or treatment for facial fractures is reported. The risks and benefits of early return-to-play are discussed and return-to-play guidelines for these patients are proposed.

  • Head Injuries
  • Teeth Facial Bones
  • Exercise Rehabilitation

https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2012-091697

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