DefinePK

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the occlusal outcome following closed reduction (CR) and open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF) for managing zygomatic complex fractures.
Methodology: A cross-sectional comparative study design was employed. Sixty patients with zygomatic complex fractures were treated; thirty were managed through open reduction while remaining thirty were managed through closed reduction technique. Experienced orthodontists used standardized occlusal images to perform the follow-up evaluation of the occlusion at 6 months and 1 year interval and rated the occlusion as optimal (normal) or poor (malocclusion). The data was collected and analyzed using SPSS 23.0  
Results: There was statistically insignificant difference in the occlusal outcome as assessed by the experienced orthodontists between the two assessed groups at 6 months and 1 year follow-up. The Chi-square frequency table showed no difference between the closed versus open reduction group for gender (p=.341).
Conclusions: This study found that managing zygomatic fractures with either closed reduction or open reduction and internal fixation produced similar occlusal outcomes. This suggests that oral and maxillo-facial surgeons can use both techniques to manage zygomatic complex fractures while taking other factors into consideration.