Le Fort fracture of skull

Le Fort fracture of skull is a classification of facial fractures involving the maxilla (upper jaw). Named after French surgeon René Le Fort, who first described them in the early 20th century, these fractures are categorized into three types: Le Fort I, II, and III. Each type represents a different pattern of injury, and they are often associated with high-impact trauma.

Le Fort I Fracture[edit | edit source]

Also known as a "floating palate" fracture, a Le Fort I fracture involves a horizontal fracture of the maxilla. This type of fracture separates the teeth from the rest of the face. The fracture line runs through the lower nasal septum, lateral maxillary sinus walls, and the pterygoid plates.

Le Fort II Fracture[edit | edit source]

A Le Fort II fracture, or "pyramidal" fracture, involves a fracture through the maxilla and the nose. The fracture line runs through the nasal bridge, lacrimal bones, inferior orbital rim, and down the anterior maxillary sinus walls and pterygoid plates.

Le Fort III Fracture[edit | edit source]

A Le Fort III fracture, also known as a "craniofacial disjunction", involves a fracture through the bones of the face and the cranial base. The fracture line runs through the nasal bridge, ethmoid bones, superior orbital fissure, and the sphenoid sinus, separating the face from the cranial base.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Le Fort fractures typically involves a combination of physical examination and imaging studies. Computed tomography (CT) scans are particularly useful in identifying the specific type of Le Fort fracture and planning for surgical repair.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment of Le Fort fractures often involves surgery to repair the fracture and restore normal facial anatomy. This may involve the use of plates, screws, and other fixation devices. The specific surgical approach depends on the type of Le Fort fracture and the associated injuries.