SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF ANIMAL AND HUMAN MAXILLOFACIAL BITES: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Objectives: Animal and human bites to the face occurs commonly. If they are not fatal, these injuries can lead to highly detrimental effects. The aim of this paper is to review literature on this topic and to update knowledge on the subject. Methods: A comprehensive review by PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar was performed using the terms “face bite” and “face attack” for surgical management of wounds. No language restrictions or animal species were applied. Articles from the last 42 years have been included. Results: A total of 71 articles from 29 different countries worldwide were included. Despite animals’ anatomy and geographic differences, multiple steps of surgical management are essential to prevent wound infection, in addition to unaesthetic and functional issues. Late attendance can be very harmful. Conclusions: Besides several important steps, copious lavage with saline and later with an antiseptic is considered the be the most effective surgical maneuver. Primary suture and later reconstruction considerations were listed. Tetanus and rabies must be screened. If in doubt, prophylaxis is strongly recommended.