Unintended Consequences: Combat-related injuries lead to advances in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery

Although not well documented, other microorganisms found in maxillofacial infections may include Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp., Escherichia coli, Bacteroides spp., Clostridium spp., and Fungi.

In theater, casualties with open head and neck wounds and fractures are immediately started on antibiotics; early serial debridement and irrigation and wound stabilization remain the foundations for both prevention and treatment of infections.

“Our colleagues on the front lines are doing a tremendous job combating infections which makes our job here at home that much easier,” Dr. Laughlin said.