An Anatomical Study of Maxillary-Zygomatic Complex Using Three-Dimensional Computerized Tomography-Based Zygomatic...

Area of Science:

• Anatomical research
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery
• Medical imaging

Background:

• Zygomatic implants offer a solution for severe maxillary atrophy.
• Precise anatomical knowledge of the maxillary-zygomatic complex is crucial for successful zygomatic implantation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To acquire detailed anatomical data of the maxillary-zygomatic complex.
• To simulate zygomatic implantation using cadaver heads and 3D-CT imaging.
• To analyze the relationship between the implant path and surrounding structures.

Main Methods:

• Simulated zygomatic implantation procedures were conducted on seven cadaver heads.
• Three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) imaging was utilized for analysis.
• Measurements of the maxillary-zygomatic complex were performed, analyzing implant path proximity to the maxillary sinus and zygomatic nerve.

Main Results:

• Implant lengths ranged from 56.85 ± 5.35 mm (cadavers) to 58.15 ± 7.37 mm (3D-CT).
• The common implantation path (80.20%) traversed the maxillary sinus.
• Implant axis projection points were primarily on the zygomatic bone's frontal process, near the lateral orbital wall.
• Distances between the implant axis and the zygomatic nerve were less than 2 mm in 53 cases.

Conclusions:

• Simulated zygomatic implantation provides valuable anatomical data for the maxillary-zygomatic complex.
• The zygomatic nerve is frequently encountered along the implantation route, necessitating careful surgical technique to avoid injury.