Journal of International College of Dentists

Page: 39-41

Penetrating foreign bodies in the maxillofacial region are uncommon and often overlooked due to their varied presentation and limitations in clinical accessibility. Foreign materials such as wood, metal, plastic, or glass may remain inert for years; however, when irritation occurs, they can trigger significant inflammatory responses requiring prompt diagnosis and management. This report describes a 32-year-old male who presented with pain, swelling, trismus, and purulent discharge over the right frontozygomatic region one week after a road traffic accident. Initial radiography failed to detect the foreign body, but ultrasonography revealed a hypoechoic mass consistent with an embedded wooden fragment. Surgical exploration through the existing laceration enabled successful retrieval of multiple wooden pieces. The infected wound was managed with thorough debridement using hydrogen peroxide, saline, and super-oxidized solution, followed by a course of oral antibiotics, resulting in uneventful healing. This case highlights the importance of detailed history, appropriate imaging selection, and timely intervention for effective foreign body management in maxillofacial trauma.