Ballistic injuries of the face and mouth in war and civil conflict

Ballistics is the science of thrown or projected objects. The consequences of ballistic injuries to the face may be devastating and lead to considerable disability and disfigurement. Reconstructive techniques for maxillofacial injuries have improved greatly since World War II; however, the basic principles for the initial, early and reconstructive phases of treatment have stood the test of time. This paper gives an overview of the management of ballistic injuries to the face and jaws.