Final answer:
A LeFort III fracture is a severe facial fracture that involves the bones of the skull and face. Signs and symptoms include facial deformity, swelling and bruising, pain and tenderness, difficulty breathing, and vision problems.
Step-by-step explanation:
A LeFort III fracture, also known as a craniofacial dysjunction, is a severe facial fracture that involves the bones of the skull and face. It is the most serious type of facial fracture and often results from high-impact trauma, such as a car accident or a fall from a significant height.
The signs and symptoms of a LeFort III fracture include:
- Facial deformity: The facial structure may appear asymmetrical or misaligned due to the displacement of the bones.
- Swelling and bruising: The affected area may exhibit swelling, bruising, and discoloration.
- Pain and tenderness: There may be pain and tenderness in the facial region, and it may be difficult to pinpoint the exact source of the pain due to the widespread nature of the fracture.
- Difficulty breathing: If the fracture affects the nasal bones and surrounding structures, it can interfere with normal breathing.
- Vision problems: Damage to the eye sockets can cause double vision or other visual disturbances.