Avulsive degloving soft tissue injury of the lower face in a child: A case report

Abstract

Facial degloving injuries occur when the skin and subcutaneous tissues separate from the underlying muscles, fascia and bones. These injuries frequently pose a reconstructive challenge for surgeons, especially when complications such as wound infection or necrosis of the avulsed flap are present. The challenges in the operative management and post operative care of a case of facial degloving injury with full thickness avulsed flap involving lower face extending in to the supra hyoid region of the neck is presented in this case report. Treatment of such facial wounds in children requires a well co-ordinated team approach between the maxillofacial surgeon, anesthesiologist and paediatrician to deliver optimum aesthetic and functional results. Keywords: Avulsion, Degloving, Maxillofacial injuries, Soft tissue facial injuries