Fracture of the zygomatic arch
A zygomatic fracture is a fracture of the zygomatic bone, usually caused by external force. Since adjacent facial bones are often also affected, it is referred to as a lateral midface fracture. This group is further divided according to the location and severity of the fracture.
It is also important whether the fragments are displaced, i.e. dislocated, from one another. Overall, lateral midface fractures account for more than 50% of all midface bone bridges. The fracture lines often follow the lines of adhesion of the individual skull bones, the so-called sutures.
The symptoms of a zygomatic fracture are a painful swelling of the affected side and often a change in the geometry of the face. Due to the origin of the masticatory muscles at the zygomatic arch, chewing is usually very painful and only possible to a limited extent. If the orbit is involved, double images may occur.
The therapy is performed surgically on dislocated bones. During this procedure, the bones are realigned. This allows them to grow together again and usually heal without consequences.
Zygomatic contusion
A zygomatic bruise is caused by a strong violent impact on the zygomatic bone. It can be very painful and manifests itself by a strong swelling of the affected side of the face. Cooling is therefore very helpful for treatment.
It relieves both the pain and the swelling.Analgesic ointments can also be used, but should be applied with caution due to the proximity to the eye. Since the zygomatic bruise shows very similar symptoms to the zygomatic fracture, a doctor’s visit should be made. This is especially true in the case of very severe swelling, which also affects the eye, becomes more severe and does not recede within a few days.
In case of additional symptoms such as double vision, severe headaches, nausea or vomiting, a doctor should be consulted immediately. The same applies to unconsciousness as a result of violence. In case of doubt, an X-ray must be taken to rule out the suspicion of a zygomatic arch fracture.
If this is not the case, no further treatment is necessary. The zygomatic bone is a small bony part of the facial skull, which is connected to the adjacent bony structures by small projections. It forms a large part of the bony orbit and is also significantly involved in the lateral facial contour.
