Intraoperative imaging with a 3D C-arm system after zygomatico-orbital complex fracture reduction

Abstract

Purpose: During the repair of zygomatico-orbital complex (ZMC) fractures, the lateral orbital wall and/or the orbital floor is often reduced by merely reducing the zygoma. Intraoperative 3D imaging can help surgeons decide whether the orbit must be reconstructed as well. The purpose of this study was therefore to assess the usefulness of intraoperative 3D C-arm imaging in evaluating the adequacy of fracture reduction.

Methods: A total of 21 patients with unilateral ZMC fractures were enrolled in this retrospective study. Four fractures were treated with a closed reduction technique. Seventeen fractures were repaired with open reduction and internal fixation of the zygomaticomaxillary buttress area. Intraoperative 3D C-arm imaging was performed in all cases. All patients underwent postoperative computed tomography and a clinical examination no earlier than 5 months after the procedure.

Results: After reduction of the ZMC fractures, intraoperative 3D scans showed inadequate repair of the orbital floor in 2 patients and inadequate repair of the lateral orbit in 1 patient. Zygoma and zygomatic arch fracture reduction had to be corrected in 1 further case. The other 17 patients did not need an additional procedure. Postoperative imaging showed that no patient required a secondary operation. No postoperative diplopia or enophthalmos developed in any patient.

Conclusions: Intraoperative 3D C-arm imaging appears to be an effective tool for evaluating ZMC fracture reduction. It helps avoid additional procedures and thus helps reduce morbidity. In addition, there appears to be no need for postoperative imaging.