Endoscopic-Assisted Zygomatic Arch Fracture Repair With a Preauricular Approach

Abstract

Introduction: Because of numerous negative sequelae with open techniques, endoscopic techniques are beginning to be widely used for maxillofacial fractures. Many endoscopic approaches for this area have been described according to several dissection plans and incisions. The aim of the present study was to report a new surgical incision and dissection method for zygomatic arch fracture that aims at reducing the complication rate of previously defined techniques. Material and Methods: The authors operated on 8 patients with a new endoscopic-assisted surgical technique. This study focused on evaluating the complication rate and surgical comfort of these patients. Results: Of the 8 patients, the plate was palpable in the zygomatic arch in one. No complications occurred due to this technique during the 1-year follow-up. Symmetrical facial contour and inconspicuous scars were obtained in all patients. Average operative time was 3 hours; hospitalization time was 1.6 days. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that an endoscopic-assisted surgical approach with a preauricular mini-incision can be safely performed in isolated multifragment zygomatic arch fractures. Using individually designed plates improved our results. This technique is easy to apply, its cosmetic results are good, and its complication rate is low.