[Zygomatic bone repositioning osteotomies].

INTRODUCTION

The main morphological sequels of zygomatic bone fractures are lack of zygomatic projection and enopthalmia. They may be corrected by zygomatic osteotomy which is a difficult operation because of modified anatomic landmarks. Onlay bone or alloplastic grafts are preferred.

TECHNICAL NOTE: Zygomatic osteotomies are performed through three surgical approaches: superior palpebral, sub-ciliary, and upper vestibular, followed by repositioning with osteosynthesis micro-plates. They allow reconstruction with an adequate projection in three dimensions. Surgery is usually associated with a bone graft of the orbital floor.

DISCUSSION: Zygomatic osteotomy is a simple, reproducible technique, but it requires a good bone exposure. The esthetic results are satisfactory with an uneventful outcome. This surgical procedure is a good alternative to isolated techniques of autologous bone grafting or alloplastic material reconstruction which have sometimes disappointing and short lasting results due to graft resorption.