Classification and Clinical Analysis of Zygomatic Fractures

Kim, Jeong Geun; We, Jae Woon; Kwon, Jae Hwan; Cho, Joong Hwan

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the surgical methods and their results according to the subtypes of zygomatic fractures.
SUBJECTS AND METHOD
Medical records of 99 zygomatic fractures treated between March 1997 and December 2006 were reviewed regarding fracture type, surgical method and time of operation from the initial trauma.
RESULTS
Overall, operations were performed in 70 out of 99 cases. For zygomatic arch fractures, facial asymmetry and trismus in all 14 of 20 cases after surgery by Gillies incision were improved, and one revision procedure was performed. For tetrapod and multifragment fractures, one revision procedure was performed because of displacement of repaired bone fragment following surgery in 60 cases. Considering location and replacement of fractures, surgery was performed through one of incisions below: Gillies, lateral canthal, gingivobuccal, and subcilliary incision. All preoperative symptoms were improved.
CONCLUSION
For zygomatic arch fractures, Gillies approach would be an optimal method, while for displaced tetrapod and multifragment fractures, two or more point fixation points would achieve satisfactory results.