[Fractures of the central midface and frontal skull base--surgical management--postoperative care--possibility of complications].

Mini-plate osteosynthesis is an osteoplastic procedure that achieves secure stabilisation of the midface even in extensive fractures of the midface and the floor of the anterior cranial fossa. This procedure can be considered as a satisfactory operative treatment both from a cosmetic and from a functional point of view. Nevertheless the partial loss of previous mucosa, and the development of granulation tissue and scar tissue can impede ventilation and drainage of the paranasal sinuses and induce recurrent inflammation. In the last five years we have treated 73 patients with extensive fractures of the midface and the anterior skull base, generally with good results. Aspects of the primary operative treatment, complications and post-operative care are discussed.