Evaluation of the Effect of Midface Suspension in Zygomaticomaxillary Complex Fractures

Accurate reduction and fixation are commonly employed in the treatment of zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fractures. Facial asymmetry and midfacial sagging caused by dissection are among the most common complications of surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term effects of midface suspension sutures to a plate positioned at the infraorbital rim and compare them with unsuspended participants using both objective and subjective parameters. The efficacy of the suspension technique was analyzed through Schoenrock analysis and radiological assessment at the 1-year postoperative follow-up. A total of 38 patients were included in the study, with 16 in the suspension group and 22 in the control group. The postoperative soft tissue projection ratio was significantly higher in the suspension group (1.068 ± 0.082) compared with the control group (0.892±0.118) (P<0.001). According to Schoenrock's analysis, the mean ratio for the suspension group (0.978±0.038) was higher than that of the control group (0.838±0.086) (P<0.001). The results of our study demonstrate improvements in postoperative malar projection compared with control group methods by suspending the soft tissue to a plate placed at the infraorbital rim following ZMC fracture repair.