Epidemiological study of zygomatic bone fractures: A five-year retrospective analysis of a single-center experience

Abstract

Introduction. Zygomatic bone fractures are prevalent in the maxillofacial region. This study aims at analyzing the epidemiology and clinical presentation of isolated zygomatic bone fractures. Material and Methods. The retrospective study, conducted at the Clinic of Maxillofacial Surgery of the University Clinical Center of Vojvodina, included 128 patients diagnosed with isolated zygomatic bone fractures. The following parameters were taken into consideration: gender, age, trauma etiology, clinical presentation, computed tomography analysis of the fracture localization and pattern. The fractures were classified into five groups according to Zingg classification system. Results. The study included patients aged 10-82 divided into four groups, with the most affected group being 30-49 years old. Men were more often treated for zygomatic bone fractures (male: female ratio 3:1). Left-sided fractures of the zygomatic bone occurred more often (55.2%) than the right-sided ones. Type B was the most common type of fracture, while the zygomaticomaxillary buttress fracture was the most common injury. Early treatment was administered in 78 patients (60.94%), while 50 patients (39.06%) underwent delayed reconstruction. The analysis of complications concerning the time of surgical intervention revealed a higher incidence of ectropion in cases treated early, while infraorbital paresthesia and facial asymmetry were more prevalent in cases treated late. Conclusion. Zygomatic bone fractures have high morbidity risk, and may cause temporary incapacity to work, and potentially permanent and functional damage.