Strain gauge analysis of the frontozygomatic region of the zygomatic complex.
OBJECTIVE
This study evaluates the biomechanical consequences of physiologic forces acting on the frontozygomatic suture region, with the ultimate goal of defining appropriate fixation techniques and improving the surgical management of this complex anatomic region.


METHODS
Single foil strain gauges were bonded to the cortical surface of the frontal process of the zygoma in 13 subadult Cercopithecus africanus. Subdermal electrodes were used to induce tetanic contractions of the jaw elevator muscles, and bite force was measured using a twin-beam bite force transducer placed between the teeth. Microstrain was simultaneously measured and recorded.


RESULTS
Tensile strains predominated in the region of the frontal process of the zygoma, with balancing side strains twice as large as working side strains; incisal strains were intermediate.


CONCLUSIONS
The tensile strains observed in the frontozygomatic region contradict the concept of this area as a "stress riser" for compressive occlusal forces, and supports the use of compression plate osteosynthesis for improved stabilization of fractures in this region.
Oyen
O J
OJ
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee 53226, USA.
Melugin
M B
MB
Indresano
A T
AT
D000818:Animals; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001732:Bite Force; D002522:Chlorocebus aethiops; D003393:Cranial Sutures / Q000502:physiology; D003799:Dental Stress Analysis; D005624:Frontal Bone / Q000502:physiology; D008410:Masticatory Muscles / Q000502:physiology*; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D013718:Tensile Strength; D014160:Transducers, Pressure; D015050:Zygoma / Q000502:physiology*; D015051:Zygomatic Fractures / Q000601:surgery