A comprehensive analysis of zygomatic symmetry and implications for zygomatic bone reconstruction (922.6)

Abstract

To assess the validity of the current approach to craniofacial repairs whereby the contralateral hemiface is used as a template for surgical repair, this study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of facial skeletal symmetry in normal human faces beginning with the zygomatic bone. Three‐dimensional models generated in OsiriX from the CT scans of 30 adult male patients displaying normal skeletal anatomy were used to assess the symmetry at seven bilateral zygomatic landmarks. All landmarks displayed a deviation from perfect symmetry, ranging from 1.41 to 3.13 mm, and statistically significant differences were observed in the asymmetry scores across the seven zygomatic landmarks (F(6,203)=5.951, p<0.005). The zygion demonstrated significantly greater asymmetry than other more medially‐located landmarks including the orbitale, jugale, and frontozygomatic suture. These results suggest that bony asymmetry can be measured and there is a significant degree of asymmetry in the zygomatic bone, particularly in the temporal process and extending into the zygomatic arch. Such deviations may warrant a re‐evaluation of current surgical approaches to the repair of zygomatic bone fractures.