Pattern of Odontogenic Fascial Space Infections among a Sample of Sudanese Patients

Background: Odontogenic facial space infections are very common in Sudan with different clinical presentation. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment is necessary to prevent life threaten complications. The aim of this study is to describe the pattern of admitted odontogenic fascial space infections among Sudanese population. Methodology: A cross sectional descriptive hospital based study was performed. A medical chart review was filled retrospectively identifying patient with odontogenic fascial space infection admitted to the Khartoum dental teaching hospital in the oral maxillofacial surgery clinic from 2013 to 2016. Results: Seventy five patients 56% male and 44% female diagnosed with odontogenic fascial space infections were recruited in the study. The most common affected age group was 21-30 years old with percent (30.7%), and the least common age groups are 1-10 years and 61-70 years. The most common affected tooth is the 3rd. molar tooth (36%). The most common cause of infection was Pulpits (44%). Mandible was the most common site (85.3%). Ludwig’s Angina was the most recorded (48%). The most common clinical sign of admission is swelling of the face (46.4%). Most of the interventional treatments modalities used in treatment were incision and drainage (86.6%). Metronidazole is the most described antibiotic (48.32%). (56 %) were not totally recovered, (40%) fully recovered, no deaths recorded in this study. Conclusion: Male was affected more by odontogenic fascial space infection than female, predominant age in the third decade; mandibular 3rd. molars are the most causative tooth, majority of cases where found to be Ludwig’s angina patients.