A novel approach for the reconstruction of complex fractures of the zygomatic arch

Abstract

Abstract Purpose This study aims to suggest a new, simple and safe approach to reduce isolated unstable fractures of the zygomatic arch, allowing rigid fixation with direct vision. Patients and Methods Data of patients treated for facial trauma between January 2009 and January 2019 at the Craniomaxillofacial Service, Hospital La Orinoquia, Casanare Colombia, were included. As inclusion criteria, zygomatic arch fractures were considered, either isolated or involving other facial bones. Patients who presented facial nerve injury before the surgery were excluded. The minimum follow-up was six months, and the maximum one year. Results Data of 210 patients were retrieved. Of which 82.3% were men and 17.6% were women. The left side was the most affected (65.1%). The most frequent causes were motor vehicle accidents (52.8%), followed by physical aggression (29.5%). The most frequent postoperative complication was the paresis of the temporal branch of the facial nerve, which was observed in 10.4% of the cases; however, it was reversible in all cases, with an average recovery of 12.5 days. Conclusion This is a simple and safe approach, which offers a wider visibility of the operative field, and allows the reduction and rigid fixation of the fractures in a precise way.