Reduction anaplasty of zygomatic arch through a minor pre-auricular incision

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical application of reduction anaplasty trough a minor pre-auricular incision. Methods A retrospective analysis of 89 patients with wide zygomatic arch treated with reduction anaplasty through pre-auricular incision from 2012 to 2016 in our hospital had been studied. Through a short incision in front of ear, zygomatic arch at the most narrow part, located about 5 cm in front of temporomandibular joint, was completely transected, whereas the junction of malar and zygomatic bone was drilled to make a greenstick fracture. No dissection of zygomatic ligament was perforemed. The dissected zygomatic arch was then pressed down and adjusted into a appropriate position. In the case of the protrusion of zygomatic body, the protrusion part could be reducted using grinding ablation. Results All the patients were followed up for 3 months to 5 years. The results were satisfactory, no serious complications were found, and the facial tissue did not show obvious ptosis. Postoperative numbness occurred on the left side in one patient and recovered spontaneously after two months. Conclusions Reduction anaplasty trough a minor pre-auricular incision is a simple, safe and effective approach for wide zygomatic arch, which could avoid facial tissue ptosis. Key words: Zygomatic arch reduction; Anterior ear incision; Zygomatic arch ligament; Branch fracture; Facial drooping