A patient sustains a Le Fort III fracture (craniofacial disjunction). Which of the following correctly describes the path of the fracture line through the orbit?
- A Through the inferior orbital fissure and floor of the orbit
- B Through the lateral orbital wall and the zygomaticofrontal suture ✓
- C Through the medial orbital wall and floor
- D Through the roof of the orbit and the optic canal
Correct answer: B. Through the lateral orbital wall and the zygomaticofrontal suture
Explanation
Le Fort III fracture passes through the nasofrontal suture, medial orbital walls, inferior orbital fissures, lateral orbital walls including the zygomaticofrontal suture, and zygomatic arches, completely separating the facial skeleton from the cranial base. The fracture extends through the lateral orbital wall, not just the floor or medial wall, distinguishing it from Le Fort II which involves the floor and medial wall.
Reference: Bailey and Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 28th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.