Classification of malar complex fractures using computed tomography.

Fifty-one patients with malar complex fractures were examined with computed tomography to analyze the pattern of displacement in an anteroposterior direction of the face. Malar complex fractures were classified into four groups according to the location and direction of the fragments. Comparisons of the fracture classification obtained by use of CT images with that obtained by conventional radiographic methods demonstrated sufficient correlations between the classification systems to confirm that it is possible to establish a complete three-dimensional pattern of displacement in malar complex fractures using CT imaging.