The use of the C-Arm in reduction of isolated zygomatic arch fractures: a technical overview

Isolated zygomatic arch fractures account for approximately 10% of all zygoma fractures. Numerous techniques have been described to reduce these fractures using a variety of approaches. Successful reductions are often difficult to evaluate clinically because of the great amount of swelling that often accompanies these fractures. Postoperative radiographs are often the only way to assess the adequacy of the reduction. This article describes a technique that uses the C-Arm to quickly and accurately evaluate the reduction intraoperatively so that appropriate corrections can be made. A case report of a patient who suffered multiple orthopedic injuries and a w-shaped depressed fracture of the left zygomatic arch is presented. The C-Arm can obviate the need for intraoperative radiographs that, due to technician and film processing delays, add significantly to operative time.