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Updated: May 3, 2026

Pseudofracture: An Acute Peripheral Tissue Trauma Model
Published on: April 18, 2011
Classification and characteristics of pterygoid process fracture associated with maxillary transverse fracture
Jingang An1, Fanfan Dai2, Zhipeng Sun3
1Associate Professor, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China.
Objective:
This study aimed to classify pterygoid process fractures associated with maxillary transverse fractures.
Study Design:
Pterygoid process fractures in 100 patients with maxillary transverse fractures were observed 2- and 3-dimensionally using image processing software. Fracture line course and height and sphenoid sinus involvement were recorded.
Results:
Pterygoid process fractures were classified as follows: class I, vertical (simple separation between medial and lateral plates); or class II, transverse (3 subcategories according to location of fracture line: II-1, within pterygoid fossa; II-2, above pterygoid fossa, not extending to sphenoid sinus floor; II-3, above pterygoid fossa, involving sphenoid sinus floor). Class I fracture was observed on 5 sides (2.7%); II-1, on 125 (66.5%); II-2, on 36 (19.1%); and II-3, on 22 (1.7%).
Conclusions:
Pterygoid process fractures were predominantly near the upper edge of the pterygoid fossa. Pneumatization of the pterygoid process is a risk in fractures involving the sphenoid sinus floor.
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