Protocol of maxillofacial abscess treatment and the role of socio-economic status in the outcome

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the treatment outcome of patients with maxillofacial abscess and its relationship with socioeconomic status in a major public hospital offering secondary health care.

Methods: A total of 105 patients presented at the Dental Centre, Central Hospital Benin, Edo State with maxillofacial abscess all of which were of odontogenic origin were seen over a 4-year period.  Age, gender, educational level, occupation, treatment, medication and outcome taken into data of interest considered in this paper.

Results: The predominant age groups were 11-20- and 21-30-years age group, accounting for 24.8% each. Females outnumbered the males at 52.4%. Length of hospital stay ranged from 5 to 10 days. A wide range of antibiotics were prescribed and some patients required dental extractions. Maxillofacial abscess is a public and personal health issue with potential life-threatening complications.

Conclusion: This study identified effect of socio-economic status on the outcome of treatment of maxillofacial abscess.

Keywords: Maxillofacial abscess, Treatment, Socio-economic status, Outcome