Modified Temporal Hairline Approach Enhances Zygomatic Arch Fracture Repair, reports research

Although non-surgical interventions are available for mild cases, severe fractures necessitate surgical intervention. The surgical repair of zygomatic arch fractures poses a risk of injuring the temporal branch of the facial nerve (TBFN). This study aimed to develop a modern modification to reduce the probability of common complications.

They conducted a retrospective study involving 163 patients at the Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, spanning from March 2021 to June 2024. Our study introduced a novel modification of the temporal hairline approach for the treatment of these fractures. Results: Among the patients who underwent the modified approach (n = 38), there were no instances of TBFN injuries.

In contrast, the traditional approach (n = 125) resulted in 17 cases of nerve-related complications. The findings indicate that the modified temporal hairline approach offers distinct advantages in minimizing the risk of TBFN injury with minimally noticeable scarring, while ensuring that the fracture is securely repaired. This provides a new safe surgical approach option for the osteosynthesis of zygomatic arch fractures.

Reference:

Tang, Zh., Jiang, Y., Liu, H. et al. A modified approach for treating zygomatic arch fracture with plate fixation: a retrospective study. BMC Surg 25, 79 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12893-025-02818-8