Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 30, 2026

Real-Time Dynamic Navigation System for the Precise Quad-Zygomatic Implant Placement in a Patient with a Severely Atrophic Maxilla
Published on: October 18, 2021
Minimal incisions for treating zygomatic complex fractures
Qing-Bin Zhang1, Yao-Jun Dong, Zu-Bing Li
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guangzhou Medical College, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China. doctorqingbin@hotmail.com
Objective:
The objective was to study the clinical application and effects of minimal incisions for treating zygomatic complex (ZMC) fractures.
Methods:
A retrospective study was conducted on the 155 patients who underwent reduction of surgical injury by minimal incision for treating ZMC fractures.
Results:
The outcomes after treatment were satisfactory functionally and aesthetically in most patients. The clinical results were good in 150 patients. No obvious scars were noticed in all the patients. After a follow-up of average 18 months, zygomatic asymmetry was present in 2 cases, numbness in the infraorbital area in 2 cases, and limitation of mouth opening in 1 patient. Plate removal was conducted in 3 patients.
Conclusions:
Repositioning of ZMC fractures via minimal incisions can get satisfactory results. With this kind of approach, the surgical injury can be reduced, and clear field of operation, convenient manipulation, less bleeding, high accuracy of reduction, and inconspicuous scar can be achieved as well. It is an ideal method and deserves to be recommended in clinical procedures.
Insights
Minimal incision surgery for zygomatic complex (ZMC) fractures offers satisfactory functional and aesthetic outcomes. This approach reduces surgical injury, leading to high accuracy and inconspicuous scars.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Zygomatic complex (ZMC) fractures are common facial injuries.
- Traditional open reduction techniques can lead to visible scarring and complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical application and outcomes of using minimal incisions for ZMC fracture treatment.
- To assess the efficacy and safety of minimally invasive ZMC fracture repair.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 155 patients with ZMC fractures treated with minimal incision surgery.
- Analysis of functional and aesthetic results, complications, and need for plate removal.
Main Results:
- 150 out of 155 patients had satisfactory functional and aesthetic outcomes.
- No obvious scars were observed in any patient.
- Minor complications included zygomatic asymmetry (2 cases), infraorbital numbness (2 cases), and limited mouth opening (1 case).
Conclusions:
- Minimal incision surgery is an effective and safe method for treating ZMC fractures.
- This technique offers reduced surgical injury, improved operative field, convenient manipulation, less bleeding, and superior aesthetic results.
- Minimally invasive ZMC fracture repair is recommended for clinical practice.
