Spatial analysis of midfacial fractures with multidirectional and computed tomography: clinicopathologic correlates in 44 cases.

The use of conventional tomography and recent application of computed tomography to the assessment of facial injuries permit a more precise preoperative spatial analysis of complex midfacial fractures. Forty-four patients sustaining Le Fort I, II, or III maxillary fractures underwent multidirectional or computed tomography (CT) or both. The patterns of fractures of the maxilla and associated fractures of the mandible, zygomas, nasoethmoidal complex, frontal sinus, skull base, and cranial vault were correlated with surgical or clinical findings or both. In 91% of cases, CT or multidirectional tomography or both correctly identified the spatial pattern of fracture of the maxilla and its supporting pillars. Pure Le Fort II fractures were seen in only nine patients, while an isolated pure Le Fort I or III fracture was not encountered. Le Fort II and III fractures were commonly associated with additional tripod, frontal sinus, or nasoethmoidal complex dislocations.