Simple External & Internal Fixation for the Zygoma Tripod Fracture

ABSTRACT

Precise reduction and rigid fixation is essential in preventing facial asymmetry in zygoma fracture patients. Numerous methods are used for treating zygoma fractures categorized largely as open reduction and simple external reduction. The conventional three point open reduction method has drawbacks such as long operating time, visible scar, cheek drooping and soft tissue violence. Simple external reduction has drawbacks such as inadequate mechanical fixation, long lasting external fixation, long term deviation of malar eminence and poor visualization. To avoid drawbacks of the conventional method, we combined one point plate fixation method and one point external fixation with double K wire technique. Total 25 patients were treated with this technique. Follow up time was 3 months to 3 year. All cases showed very good cosmetic symmetry without any complications. Advantages of this technique include, simple procedure, smaller incisional scar, early removal of pin, early return to mastication, prevention of malar eminence deviation, and less soft tissue violence. This internal and external fixation technique is a simple and effective method in treatment of uncomminuted zygoma fracture.