Mechanical jaw restriction after zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture: an unusual coronoid-zygomatic relationship.
Harman Singh, Samuel Viran Thambar, Thomas Cooper
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A woman in her early 30s presented with malar flattening and inability to fully close her mouth after a fall from an electric scooter. CT imaging revealed a comminuted right zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fracture with the intact coronoid process displaced laterally. Urgent surgery addressed the ZMC fracture, leading to spontaneous reduction of the coronoid and restoration of mandibular function by the 3-month follow-up.
What made this case unusual
The case illustrates a rare complication where the intact coronoid process is displaced laterally due to a ZMC fracture, leading to mechanical jaw restriction.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider coronoid displacement as a potential cause of mechanical jaw restriction in patients with midfacial trauma.
Why it matters
This case underscores the importance of CT imaging and timely surgical intervention to prevent long-term functional impairment in similar injuries.