Symptoms
Pain in the cheek or jaw area, especially when moving the jaw.
Swelling and bruising in the cheek area.
Tenderness upon palpation of the zygomatic arch.
Difficulty opening or closing the mouth (trismus).
Flattening of the cheekbone prominence.
Visual disturbances (e.g., double vision), if the orbit is involved.
Numbness or tingling in the cheek or upper lip area (due to nerve involvement).
Depression or irregularity felt along the zygomatic arch.
Causes
Blunt force trauma to the face, such as:
Falls
Motor vehicle accidents
Assaults
Sports injuries
Medicine Used
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen) or prescription pain medications (e.g., opioids) for pain management.
Antibiotics: May be prescribed to prevent infection, especially if there are open wounds or if surgery is required.
Muscle relaxants: To alleviate muscle spasms and trismus (difficulty opening the mouth).
Anti-inflammatory medications: To reduce swelling and inflammation.
Is Communicable
No, zygomatic arch fractures are not communicable. They are caused by physical trauma, not by an infectious agent.
Precautions
Avoid activities that could result in further trauma to the face.
Follow the doctor's instructions regarding pain management, wound care, and diet.
Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection.
Avoid chewing hard or tough foods during the healing process.
Use ice packs to reduce swelling.
Attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor.
How long does an outbreak last?
Zygomatic arch fractures are not outbreaks. They are injuries. The healing time for a fracture can vary.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Examination: Palpation of the face to assess for tenderness, deformity, or crepitus (a crackling sound). Assessment of facial symmetry and range of motion of the jaw.
Imaging Studies:
X-rays: To visualize the fracture.
CT Scan: Provides more detailed images of the bones and surrounding structures, which is helpful in complex fractures.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies depending on the severity of the fracture and individual factors.
Immediately after injury: Pain, swelling, and bruising begin to develop.
Within hours: Difficulty opening the mouth (trismus) may worsen.
Days 1-3: Swelling and bruising typically peak. Pain may be more intense.
Week 1-2: Swelling and bruising gradually subside. Pain may decrease with pain medication.
Weeks 2-6: Bone healing begins. Symptoms gradually improve.
Months: Full recovery may take several months, especially if surgery was required.
Important Considerations
Prompt medical attention is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Surgical intervention may be necessary for displaced fractures or those affecting jaw function or facial aesthetics.
Long-term complications can include malunion (improper healing), nerve damage, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems.
It's crucial to follow post-operative instructions carefully to promote healing and prevent complications.
Dental occlusion must be assessed, and dental treatment may be needed.