Zygomaticomaxillary

Zygomaticomaxillary is an anatomical term describing the relationship between the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) and the maxilla (upper jaw). It is commonly used to refer to the zygomaticomaxillary complex, a midfacial structure that forms part of the lateral orbital wall and the cheek, and to the zygomaticomaxillary suture where the bones articulate.

Anatomy and connections: The zygomatic bone articulates with the maxilla at the zygomaticomaxillary buttress, as well as with the frontal bone, temporal bone, and sphenoid bone. The region helps shape the orbital rim and lateral orbital wall, contributes to facial width, and provides attachment points for facial muscles. The infraorbital nerve runs in the infraorbital canal of the maxilla near this region, making it relevant in surgical approaches and trauma assessment.

Clinical significance: The zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) is commonly involved in facial trauma. ZMC fractures can disrupt the midface’s structural support, alter facial contour, and affect orbital volume, potentially causing diplopia, malar flattening, infraorbital numbness, or enophthalmos. A tripod fracture is a related injury that involves the zygomaticomaxillary region along with adjacent sutures and orbital rims. Diagnosis typically relies on clinical examination and computed tomography.

Imaging and treatment: CT imaging is the standard for evaluating ZMC injuries, detailing displacements at the zygomaticomaxillary suture and adjacent articulations. Management ranges from conservative monitoring to surgical reduction and fixation, depending on the degree of displacement and functional impairment.

See also: zygomaticomaxillary suture, zygomaticomaxillary buttress, zygomatic bone, infraorbital nerve, zygomatic arch.