Efficacy of Altered Two-Point Fixation in Zygomaticomaxillary Complex Fracture.

PURPOSE: To reconstruct a zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fracture, zygomaticofrontal (ZF) suture is the most reliable site to assess anatomical alignment and to secure rigidity. It has been chosen primary site to be fixed, but approach through the lateral eyebrow incision may leave a visible scar. This study suggests altered two-point fixation of ZMC fracture without accessing the ZF suture.

METHODS

In the retrospective study, a total of 40 patients with ZMC fracture were divided into two groups (group 1, two-point fixation and group 2, three-point fixation). Patient demographics and follow-up were evaluated, and degree of reduction including cortical gaps of ZF and inferior orbital (IO) area, protruding difference of zygoma, and malar difference using asymmetry index were measured through preoperative and postoperative CT.

RESULTS

Preoperatively, the means of ZF displacement, IO displacement, protruding difference of zygoma, and facial asymmetry index between the groups were not statistically different. The result was the same after the operation. However, all variables were significantly different before and after surgery within each group. Moreover, mean operation time was significantly different between groups (P value = 0.026).

CONCLUSION

Altered two-point fixation in ZMC fracture excluding incision approaching the ZF provides surgical efficacy and similar surgical outcomes to three-point fixation but offers reduced operation time and fewer complications.