[3-dimensional imaging possibilities of thhe mid-face area using digital volume tomography based on a daver study of angle stable osteosynthesis].

Background: Multidirectional angularly stable interlocking plate systems are now available for the surgical treatment of the midface. After first experiences in cases of mandibular fractures, application to the facial skeleton was investigated using a cadaver study. Furthermore, three-dimensional imaging by means of the digital volume tomograph NewTom DVT 9000 after reduction of orbitozygomatical fractures was performed and evaluated.

Material And Methods: After artificial osteotomy and reduction of both zygomatical complexes, osteosynthesis of the left side was performed with three 4-hole miniplates (2.0). On the right side, three angular stable 2-hole plates (2.3) were used. Thereafter, a three-dimensional data set was generated using the NewTom DVT 9000. After DICOM-import in eFilm reconstructions were evaluated by six examiners regarding defined criteria.

Results: After adaptation and fixation of the angular stable interlocking plate system without complications, manual checking revealed that the primary stability did not seem inferior to the other side. Defined criteria were sufficiently evaluable, even close to the osteosynthetic material, using reconstructions of the digital volume tomography data set.

Conclusion: Surgical treatment of midfacial fractures using a multidirectional angularly stable interlocking plate system seems promising. The NewTom DVT 9000 proved to be suitable to visualize even fine osseous structures of the midface.