[Fractures of the midface]
1Afdeling Mondziekten, Kaakchirurgie en Bijzondere Tandheelkunde, Academisch Ziekenhuis Groningen, postbus 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen.
Abstract:
Midfacial fractures have a wide variety of appearance. The original classification by Le Fort is still in use. Nasal-orbital-ethmoidal (NOE) fractures deserve special attention. Next to clinical evaluation detailed computer tomography is necessary. Extended open reduction and internal fixation with various mini- and microplate osteosyntheses as well as immediate reconstruction with calvarian bone are essential components of surgical treatment aiming for adequate function and esthetics. Reduction of increased inner intercanthal distances is a substantial part of the treatment of NOE fractures. Surgical repair within 48-72 hours benefits the final result and limits the number and extent of secondary corrections.
Related Concept Videos
Bone Formation by Intramembranous Ossification
The process begins when mesenchymal cells in the embryonic skeleton gather together and differentiate into osteogenic cells, which then develop into...
Fractures: Bone Repair
Minor fractures with no bone displacement are treated by immobilizing the fractured bone using a cast or splint. However, in the case of fractures with displaced bones, the broken bones are repositioned before immobilization to ensure successful healing without deformation and loss of function. The realignment of fractured bone ends is performed through a process called reduction. If the procedure...
Overview of the Skull
The cranial vault surrounds and protects the brain and houses the middle and inner ear structures. This cavity is bounded superiorly by the rounded top of the skull, which...
Cranial Bones: Superior and Posterior View
The frontal bone is the single bone that forms the forehead. At its anterior midline, between the eyebrows, there is a slight depression called the glabella. The frontal bone also forms the supraorbital margin of the orbit. Near the middle of this margin is the supraorbital foramen, the opening that provides passage for a sensory nerve to the forehead. The frontal bone is thickened just above each supraorbital margin,...
Cranial Bones: Lateral View
The temporal bone forms the lower lateral side of the skull. The temporal bone is subdivided into several regions. The flattened upper portion is the squamous portion of the temporal bone. Below this area and projecting anteriorly is the zygomatic process of the temporal bone, which forms the posterior portion of the zygomatic arch. Posteriorly is the mastoid portion of the temporal bone. Projecting...


