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Case Reports
. 2022 Oct 19:34:252-256.
doi: 10.1016/j.jpra.2022.10.005. eCollection 2022 Dec.

Reduction and fixation of comminuted fractures of the midface by using a Hoffman-type external fixator: A case report

Masakatsu Hihara  1 , Masashi Kihara  1 , Michika Fukui  1 , Toshihito Mitsui  1 , Natsuko Kakudo  1
Affiliations
Case Reports

Reduction and fixation of comminuted fractures of the midface by using a Hoffman-type external fixator: A case report

Masakatsu Hihara et al. JPRAS Open. .

Abstract

Internal fixation using plates remains the gold standard for facial fracture fixation. External wound fixators are rarely used. In the present study, we successfully treated multiple comminuted facial fractures with midfacial depressions by using a Hoffman-type external fixator and achieved good functional and cosmetic results. Internal fixation using plates is sometimes problematic in comminuted facial fractures, such as those associated with high-energy trauma. Depending on the fracture pattern, a Hoffman-type external fixator, which is a single pillar type of external fixator, can be effective.

Keywords: Comminuted facial fracture; Craniofacial fracture; External fixator; Single-pillar external fixator.

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Figures

Fig 1
Figure 1
Three-dimensional CT revealed frontal bone fractures, bilateral maxillary and zygomatic fractures, and a naso-orbito-ethmoid (NOE) fracture with midface depression.
Fig 2
Figure 2
After half-pin insertion in the thicker cortical part of the maxilla and zygomatic body, the zygomatic and maxillary bones were guided to improve the enlarged left infraorbital volume and the distance between zygomatic processes, and then cross-linked with a frame.
Fig 3
Figure 3
Three-dimensional CT images during the treatment course. The transverse facial diameter was shortened, and the midface was reconstructed to nearly its original position.
Fig 4
Figure 4
An incisal distance of 35 mm has been achieved, and the patient can eat food normally without occlusal dysfunction at 6 months after surgery.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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