Biomechanical Impact of a Zygoma Complex Fracture Using Human Cadaver

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Craniofacial Trauma

Background:

• Zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures are common midface injuries.
• Titanium mini plates are frequently used for repair.
• The necessity of infraorbital rim plating is debated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate craniofacial strain patterns in zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture repairs.
• To compare repairs with and without infraorbital rim plating.
• To utilize a novel bite force simulator for biomechanical analysis.

Main Methods:

• Simulated dipod and tripod zygomatic complex fractures on cadaveric heads.
• Repaired fractures with and without infraorbital rim mini plates.
• Applied physiological masticatory loads using a bite force simulator.
• Measured facial bone strains with uniaxial strain gauges.

Main Results:

• No significant overall strain pattern difference was found with infraorbital rim plating in dipod or tripod fractures.
• Localized significant strain differences were observed at the zygomatic buttress and arch in dipod fractures.
• This study is the first to use a mechanical simulator for physiological loads in fracture fixation research.

Conclusions:

• Infraorbital rim plating may not significantly alter overall craniofacial strain in common zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures.
• Localized strain effects at the zygomatic buttress and arch warrant further investigation.
• The employed bite force simulator technology offers new possibilities for maxillofacial research.