Le Fort Fracture Classifications Flashcards

Study Notes

Le Fort Fracture Classifications

Le Fort Type I
- Known as "floating palate" and classified as a horizontal fracture.
- Separates the teeth from the upper face.
- Fracture line follows the alveolar ridge, lateral nasal area, and inferior wall of the maxillary sinus.
Le Fort Type II
- Referred to as "floating maxilla" with a pyramidal shape.
- Features a fracture where teeth form the base of the pyramid and the nasofrontal suture is at the apex.
- Fracture line extends through the posterior alveolar ridge, lateral walls of maxillary sinuses, inferior orbital rim, and nasal bones.
- Upper fracture line may intersect with the nasofrontal junction or the frontal process of the maxilla.
Le Fort Type III
- Known as "floating face" and described as a transverse fracture.
- Characterized by craniofacial disjunction, affecting the stability of facial structures.
- Involves a fracture line that passes through the nasofrontal suture, maxillo-frontal suture, orbital wall, and zygomatic arch/zygomaticofrontal suture.
- The involvement of the zygomatic arch heightens the risk of temporalis muscle impingement.
- Notably has the highest incidence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak compared to other types.

Description

Test your knowledge on the Le Fort fracture classifications with these flashcards. Each card presents essential definitions and memory aids for Le Fort types I and II, making it easier to remember key characteristics. Perfect for medical students and professionals alike.