STUDY ON ASSESSMENT OF ZYGOMATICOMAXILLARY COMPLEX FRACTURES WITH GILLIES TEMPORAL APPROACH

Abstract

Background:
Zygomaticomaxillary Complex (ZMC) fractures are among the most common midfacial injuries, often resulting from road traffic accidents, assaults, and falls. These fractures can impair facial aesthetics and function, necessitating prompt and effective management. The Gillies temporal approach is a widely accepted surgical technique for the reduction of ZMC fractures due to its minimal invasiveness and aesthetic advantages. This study aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes, efficacy, and complication rates associated with the Gillies temporal approach in the management of ZMC fractures.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective clinical study was conducted on 30 patients (22 males and 8 females) aged between 20 and 45 years, presenting with unilateral ZMC fractures. All patients underwent open reduction using the Gillies temporal approach under general anesthesia. Clinical evaluation was done preoperatively and postoperatively using parameters such as malar prominence, mouth opening, infraorbital nerve function, and radiographic alignment. Follow-up was carried out at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively.

Results:
Out of 30 cases, successful anatomical reduction was achieved in 28 patients (93.3%). Mild residual asymmetry was noted in 2 patients (6.7%). Infraorbital nerve paresthesia was observed in 4 patients (13.3%) postoperatively, which resolved within 3 months in all but one case. No major complications such as hematoma, infection, or temporal hollowing were reported. Mean operative time was 45 ± 10 minutes, and hospital stay ranged from 1 to 3 days.

Conclusion:
The Gillies temporal approach is a reliable, minimally invasive, and effective method for treating ZMC fractures, offering satisfactory functional and aesthetic outcomes with minimal complications. It remains a valuable technique, especially in resource-limited settings and for patients prioritizing minimal scarring.