A new study focused on the role of restraining devices on the pattern of facial fractures. The main
objective was to answer three questions: Do airbags and seatbelts influence the pattern of the facial
fractures secondary to a motor vehicle accident? Does the use of restraining devices alter the pattern
of bilateral fractures? And does the use of airbag and seatbelt influence the need for repair once the facial
fracture has occurred?

The authors of the study, Influence of Airbags and Restraining Devices on the Pattern of Facial Fractures in
Motor Vehicle Accidents, are Payman Simoni, MD, Artemus J Cox III, MD, and Robert Ostendorf, all from
the Division of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. Section of Facial plastic and Reconstructive
Surgery, University of Alabama at the Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL. Their findings were
presented on May 13, 2001, before the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Spring Meeting, in Palm Desert, CA.

Use of seatbelt and airbag, especially together, offers a statistically significant reduction in facial fractures
in severe motor vehicle accidents. Nasal and zygomaticomaxillary fractures are the most common facial fractures
caused by a motor vehicle accident. However, the pattern of facial fractures is not greatly altered by the use of restraining
devices. If an accident is severe enough to cause a facial fracture, airbags are least protective of the ZMC.
Perhaps a change in the mechanics of airbags might be needed to provide more protection for weaker areas of the face.