Fractures of the zygomatic complex in Nigerian patients.

A survey of 337 Nigerian patients with fractures of the zygomatic complex disclosed that almost 96% involved males, more than 80% were between 21 and 40 years old, and 82.2% were caused by traffic accidents. The incidence of fractures caused by traffic accidents, falls, and sports was not significantly higher on the left side of the face than on the right, but those resulting from fights occurred significantly more often on the left side of the face. The highest incidence of fractures occurred during the rainy season and the month of December. Delay in reporting for treatment contributed considerably to the problems of management and to complications. About 47% of the patients required no active treatment, whereas approximately 41% had simple elevation; the overall complication rate was 8.9%.