Radiologic and Histological Study of Healing Process on Malunion Rat Model after Zygomatic Arch Fracture

Kim, Dong Kyu; Kim, Myeong Jin; Na, Yun Seong; Lee, Jung Woo; Lee, Joong Seob; Park, Chan Hum

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES
Zygomatic arch fracture should be treated early, because failure of prompt treatment of these injuries November result in significant morbidity, including malar asymmetry, enopthalmos, and sensory deficits. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radiologic and histological changes of healing process on zygomatic arch fracture with malunion in animal model. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Ten rats with malunion after zygomatic arch fracture were used in this study. Using micro computerized tomography, we evaluated the defect of fracture site with serial weeks (1, 2, 4, and 8). We also analyzed the histological findings at same period.
RESULTS
The 2-D images were able to assess a difference in recovery process of a bone fracture, but it was too small to be recognized. However, we could find to the definite changes of healing process by using the 3-D reconstructed image according to time sequence. Additionally, fracture sites were healed by primary bone healing process in the zygomatic arch fracture malunion state.
CONCLUSION
The 3-D image is more useful to evaluate for fracture healing state. Moreover, the proper evaluation and adequate management is necessary even after eight weeks, because healing of fracture was not completed.