The zygomatic bone (zygoma, cheekbone) forms the prominence of the cheek and part of the lateral orbital wall and floor. It articulates with the frontal, temporal, maxillary, and sphenoid bones, forming the zygomaticofrontal, zygomaticomaxillary, and zygomaticotemporal sutures. The temporal process of the zygoma forms the anterior portion of the zygomatic arch.
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| Landmarks |
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| Ossification | Membranous ossification from a single centre at approximately 8 weeks of fetal development. |
Zygomatic complex fractures (tripod or malar fractures) disrupt all three zygomatic sutures simultaneously, producing malar flattening, periorbital ecchymosis, and enophthalmos. The infraorbital nerve runs through the zygomatic-maxillary buttress and is commonly injured, producing cheek numbness. Surgical reduction through Gillie's temporal approach or open reduction with plate fixation restores the zygomatic buttress. The zygoma provides the anchor point for total joint prostheses and for bone-anchored hearing aids in the temporal region.
A blow to the cheek separates the zygoma at its sutures, flattening the cheek and causing numbness in the infraorbital nerve territory, double vision, or trismus.
An isolated depressed arch fracture can impinge on the coronoid process of the mandible and limit mouth opening.
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