Modification of surgical technique in isolated zygomatic arch fracture repair: seven case studies

Abstract

Closed reduction is applied in most cases of isolated zygomatic arch fracture. Open reduction and internal rigid fixation through a coronal incision have to be performed in other comminuted arch fractures. The authors introduced an endoscopic-assisted approach via a small preauricular incision to achieve reposition and osteosynthesis of isolated zygomatic arch fractures. The endoscopic-assisted surgical technique was performed in 7 patients with unilateral isolated zygomatic arch fractures. Endoscopically controlled management of the isolated zygomatic arch fracture was feasible in all 7 patients. The follow-up period was 1 year. All preauricular scar and facial lateral contour were aesthetically satisfactory. The endoscope-assisted approach via a small preauricular incision can achieve in situ reduction and fixation in zygomatic arch fracture and it should become an integral part of isolated zygomatic fracture repair, assuming the development of specialized training programs and improvements in endoscopes.