Evaluation of the zygomatic bone by cone beam computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Radiology
• Maxillofacial Surgery

Background:

• The zygomatic bone (ZB) is crucial for maxillofacial reconstruction and fracture repair.
• Its anatomical proximity to air cells raises questions about potential pneumatization.
• Understanding ZB morphology is vital for surgical planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the presence of characteristics similar to pneumatization in the zygomatic bone (CSPZB) using CBCT.
• To determine the prevalence and distribution of CSPZB concerning age, gender, laterality, and type.

Main Methods:

• Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of 698 patients (1,396 ZBs) were analyzed.
• Presence of CSPZB, age, gender, laterality, and type (unilocular/multilocular) were recorded.
• Statistical analyses (Chi-squared test) correlated CSPZB with demographic and anatomical factors.

Main Results:

• CSPZB was identified in 3.3% of individuals and 2.8% of all zygomatic bones.
• Bilateral occurrence (69.5%) was more common than unilateral (30.5%), with all cases being multilocular.
• No statistically significant correlation was found between CSPZB and gender, age, or laterality.

Conclusions:

• An altered pattern resembling pneumatization exists in the zygomatic bone, though with low prevalence.
• The zygomatic bone requires careful evaluation on tomographic images before surgical interventions.
• These findings contribute to anatomical knowledge relevant for maxillofacial procedures.