An intraoral blast of firecracker caused extensive maxillofacial injury: A rare case report and literature review

Abstract

The incidence of complex maxillomandibular injuries resulting from the intraoral explosion of spherical firecrackers is rare. Restoring oral function, aligning teeth, and achieving optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes are challenging. This case report presents a 34-year-old male patient who self-lit firecrackers in his mouth and suffered comminuted mandibular fracture, dentoalveolar fracture (upper and lower anterior segment), multiple soft tissue injuries, and laceration of lip, adjacent skin, tongue, and oropharyngeal area. Before transferring the patient to oral and maxillofacial surgery unit, urgent intubation, fluid resuscitation, and bleeding control were performed. These traumas require considerable debridement and immediate reconstruction. The patient underwent debridement, irrigation, open reduction, and internal fixation with miniplates. Postoperative functional outcomes were assessed using the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UW-QOL) at 3-month, 6-month and 1-year. Functional outcomes, especially swallowing and speech, were satisfactory. The facial soft tissue scar was well hidden, with no functional impairment. Occlusal alignment was achieved, and an acrylic partial denture was used for rehabilitation. The patient did not experience any post-surgical complications such as trismus or microstomia.