The role of microfixation in malar fractures: a quantitative biophysical study

Microfixation and wire fixation techniques were used in combination with miniplates in the stabilization of simulated simple zygoma fractures in four fresh human cadaver heads. An orthogonal conveyer and rigid steel test frame were used to test rotational stability after deforming forces were applied. After testing multiple combinations at an initial deforming force of 5 kg, selected combinations were tested over a range of 2 to 22 kg. Evaluation of force-displacement data revealed that three-point fixation with miniplates was superior to all other methods, in agreement with previous studies. The combination of lateral buttress miniplate fixation in conjunction with microfixation at the zygomaticofrontal and infraorbital rim regions exhibited stable characteristics over the range of forces applied. Miniplate-microplate combinations exhibited greater stability than corresponding miniplate-wire combinations. The combination of miniplate-microplate fixation clinically allows a balance between stability and aesthetics in selected zygoma fractures.