Identification and classification in le fort type fractures by using 2D and 3D computed tomography.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the usefulness of two- dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) in the identification and classification of Le Fort type fractures.

METHODS

Sixty-two patients with different types of Le Fort fractures underwent CT scanning and 3D-CT reconstruction. The data were analyzed by multiplanar reconstruction (MPR), surface shaded display (SSD) and volume rendering (VR) respectively.

RESULTS

The patients with Le Fort I, Le Fort II fracture and Le Fort III fracture accounted for 16.1%, 14.5% and 12.9% respectively. The compound fractures were the most common type and accounted for 56.5% (n=35, 18 cases with Le Fort I+II fracture, 10 cases with Le Fort II+III fracture and 7 cases with Le Fort I+ II+III fracture). Fifty-five cases coexisted with other fractures in maxillofacial region. 2D-CT could be used to define the tiny fractures and the deep-structure fractures more accurately compared with 3D-CT, but the real impression of Le Fort type fractures could not be correctly evaluated on 2D-CT. 3D-CT could clearly demonstrate the whole shape of Le Fort type fractures and identify the classification of Le Fort fractures.

CONCLUSIONS

3D-CT is the best imaging method for the diagnosis of Le Fort type fractures and can provide valuable information of space relationship, especially for the design of treatment plan before operation.