Single buccal sulcus approach with fluoroscan assistance for the management of simple zygomatic fractures

Background: Zygomatic fractures are associated with functional and aesthetic problems. The purpose of this studywas to evaluate the adequacy of management and the surgical satisfaction of patients with simple zygomatic fractures treated through a single buccal sulcus approach and fluoroscan assistance. Methods: Between 2008 and 2012, 42 patients with simple zygomatic fractures were included in the study. The surgical procedure was performed through a single buccal sulcus incision. The fracture sites were aligned under direct vision and fluoroscan assistance and stabilized with rigid internal fixation. The adequacy of reduction was evaluated based on postoperative plain radiographic films and computed tomographic scans using mirror image analyses. The satisfaction of functional and aesthetic results was also evaluated subjectively using a visual analog scale during follow-up. Results: Twenty-nine male and thirteen female patients with a mean age of 33.2 years were evaluated. Motorcycle crashes (78.6%) were the most common mechanism of trauma. Based on follow-up imaging studies, 2 patients had inadequate reduction of zygomatic body, and there was a slight depression of the zygomatic arch in one patient. Ninety-Three percent (39/42) of patients had satisfactory results, although one patient complained of malar asymmetry and another felt a depression in the arch area. Two patients complained of persistent hypesthesia during follow-up at 6 months. Conclusions: Our results suggest that a single buccal sulcus approach without lower eyelid or lateral eyebrow incision in the repair of simple fractures of the zygoma can be achieved with high patient satisfaction if the reduction and fixation are adequate and stable.