Classification system and treatment of zygomatic arch fractures in the clinical setting.

A new classification system and algorithm of zygomatic arch fractures is described that provides the surgeon with a useful starting point from which to organize a valid treatment plan and management of zygomatic arch fractures. Hönig Merten (HM) class I is defined as an isolated tripod fracture, HM class II as an isolated stick fracture of the arch, and HM class III is a combined fracture of the malar bone and the zygomatic arch. Although reduction of the class I and II is usually closed, open reduction is mandatory in class III zygomatic arch fractures.