Evaluation of treatment outcomes of zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fractures using Foley catheter ballooning technique.

INTRODUCTION

Zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fractures are among the most common midfacial injuries. The conventional management involves open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), which allows precise anatomical reduction but is associated with increased surgical morbidity. To overcome these limitations, minimally invasive techniques have been explored. The Foley catheter ballooning technique has recently been introduced as a novel method for fracture reduction. In addition, n-butyl cyanoacrylate glue has been used as an adjunct for fixation, offering advantages such as ease of application, reduced operative time, and elimination of hardware-related complications.

METHODOLOGY: A prospective comparative study was conducted on 42 patients, allocated into two groups: Group A (Foley catheter ballooning technique, n = 21) and Group B (conventional ORIF, n = 21). Parameters evaluated included operative time, ease of procedure, postoperative stability, radiological outcomes (fracture reduction, ZMC and zygomatic arch symmetry, and orbital rim continuity), pain perception, and postoperative complications. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. Variables were analyzed using the unpaired t-test and Chi-square test, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The mean operative time was significantly shorter in Group A compared with Group B (p = 0.001). Ease of procedure, postoperative stability, and radiological outcomes were significantly better in Group A. Pain perception and postoperative complications were also significantly lower in the Foley catheter group.

CONCLUSION

The Foley catheter ballooning technique appears to be a reliable and minimally invasive alternative for selected ZMC fractures, providing reduced operative time, improved stability and better patient comfort compared with conventional ORIF.