Abstract By definition, degloving is skin and subcutaneous tissue detachment, most often affecting the limbs and extremities and occasionally the scalp. Degloving generally stems from high-energy trauma, but can also be intentional, such as in the case of planned surgical access in the anterior region of the mandible in oral-maxillofacial surgery. This paper describes an extreme case of complete traumatic maxillofacial degloving that caused partial avulsion of the soft tissues and maxilla. This is an extremely rare condition that has not previously been described in the literature, as the patient survived despite the risk of imminent death. This case report addresses the decisions made regarding the prevention of necrosis and infection that guided the emergency care and subsequent elective steps.

Globally, the incidence of facial fractures stemming from automobile accidents has decreased . Head and facial trauma account for a significant number of trauma cases and may cause irreparable, life-threatening damage.

Degloving normally results from traffic or industrial accidents. This type of injury involves the separation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue from the bones, compromising the adjacent fascia, muscles, blood vessels and nerves . Such injuries are more common in the hands, but may occur in other parts of the body, such as the craniofacial region .

Owing to the rarity of patients who experience facial degloving of this magnitude, there is no pre-established treatment protocol. The aims of initial treatment include ensuring the permeability of the airways and controlling bleeding. A shorter operation time reduces the risk of infection and necrosis and allows favourable conditions for the subsequent reestablishment of bone structures, providing the patient with adequate function and aesthetics.

The authors describe a unique, extreme case of complete maxillofacial degloving associated with multiple fractures of facial bones that required emergency measures for the stabilization and maintenance of the patient’s life.