Radiologic evaluation of the patient with maxillofacial trauma begins only after initial management and stabilization of the patient have been completed. A thorough, stepwise examination of the facial region can guide the selection of appropriate radiographic studies, based on the clinical suspicion of a specific facial injury.

The complexity of the facial structures, both soft tissue and bony, can make clinical examination, as well as radiographic interpretation of maxillofacial injuries, somewhat difficult. Clinical, and particularly radiologic assessment, are aided by a precise knowledge of facial anatomy. Although landmarks of the orofacial complex are covered in detail elsewhere in this issue, a brief review of the bony anatomy of the face should precede a discussion of radiologic evaluation. This review facilitates the discussion of radiographic examination of the patient with maxillofacial trauma.