Medicolegal assessment in cases of zygomatico-maxillo-orbital fractures and isolated orbital floor fractures in criminal cases

Aim of the study
The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of effects equivalent to moderate and severe impairment to health within the meaning of the Penal Code in patients with zygomatico-maxillo-orbital fractures and isolated orbital floor fractures. In addition, the study addressed the possibilities of applying the presented results in the preparation of medicolegal opinions in cases provided for in Articles 158 and 160 of the PC with respect to evaluating the plausibility of inflicting such bodily injuries and causing moderate and severe health impairment.

Material and methods
The study covered a total of 124 patients operated on in the then Clinic of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, Medical Academy of Lodz, in 1996–2001, because of fractures involving the inferior orbital wall including zygomatico-maxillo-orbital fractures (95 cases) and isolated orbital floor fractures (29 cases). The group was analyzed in a statistical and descriptive manner.

Results
All the study patients (100%) with both types of fractures involving the inferior orbital wall exhibit symptoms and disorders which, pursuant to the PC, would constitute at least moderate, or possibly even severe, impairment to health.

Conclusions
Punches or kicks to the orbital region create a real danger of causing both types of orbital fracture under study, and resulting in at least moderate health impairment.