Sphenotemporal buttress fracture. A report of five cases

A new fracture type visible on CT images of the base of the skull is described. In this fracture the sphenoidal connection to the zygomatic and temporal bone breaks off all its three extensions. It was recognized in five patients with severe head injuries. In three surviving patients it was associated with ipsilateral persistent amaurosis. This fracture should alert the investigator to the possible sequelae of the head injury.