title: The fixation of malar fractures with the transnasal Kirschner wire.
abstract: Our experience with a rapid and reliable method for the repair of selected unstable malar fractures using external pin fixation is reported. Following reduction through a Gillies temporal incision, a Kirschner wire is introduced on the contralateral side, advanced through the nasal vault and septum and the reduced malar bone is engaged. This method of immobilization can be used in isolated malar fractures or in conjunction with the repair of other facial injuries. In 38 patients where this procedure was utilized, there was low morbidity as well as excellent cosmetic and functional results. The advantages of this technique as well as a comparison with other available methods of malar fixation are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Division of Head and Neck Surgery, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance 90509.
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Abemayor
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Zemplenyi
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Mannai
authors.forename: D J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Webb
authors.forename: R F
authors.initials: RF
authors.lastname: Canalis
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001864:Bone Wires; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009666:Nose; D009984:Orthopedic Fixation Devices; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011859:Radiography; D015051:Zygomatic Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*