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Differential Diagnosis
- Fractures of the nasal bone and anterior nasal spine
- Fracture of the orbit and zygoma
- Nasal soft tissue injury
Diagnosis
The correct diagnosis in this case is fractures of the nasal bone and anterior nasal spine. As seen in the x-ray, there is a linear fracture through the nasal bone. Irregularity of the anterior nasal spine with overlying soft tissue swelling can be observed.
What to Look For
- Fractures of the anterior nasal spine in maxillofacial trauma are common, and missed diagnosis of these types of fractures happens often because the structure can be overlooked in evaluations
- Evaluate for other fractures of the facial bones
- It is important to evaluate for septal hematoma as this requires intervention to prevent necrosis and infection
Pearls for Urgent Care Management
- Initial treatment includes ice, oral pain medications, and head elevation
- For displaced fractures, discuss with a specialist about preferred timing of reduction
See More on Nasal Fractures
- A 20-Year-Old Male with Nasal Pain Following an Injury
- 12-Year-Old With Facial Trauma
- Oral and Facial Injuries in Urgent Care
42-Year-Old With Facial Injury
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