Anatomy and tensile strength of the zygomatic ligament

초록

The aim of this study is to elucidate the precise anatomical and histological structure and tensile strength of the zygomatic ligament (ZL). Nine hemifaces of 7 Korean adult cadavers were dissected, and 5 were prepared for histology. The locations of the bony attachment areas of the ZLs were measured on rectangular and polar coordinates. The x-axis was a horizontal line across the lower border of superficial lateral canthal ligament. The y-axis was a vertical line at the lateral border of orbital rim. The tensile strengths of the ZLs were measured using a force gauge. Each ZL was attached from the zygoma to the dermis. The bony attachment area of the ZL was rectangular shaped. The thickness at its origin was 0.8 ± 0.2mm and the width was 8.1 ± 0.7mm with a height from bone to dermis of 6.5 ± 0.6mm. The axis was 19° inclined to the horizontal line. The vertical distance from the x-axis to the lateral end and to the medial end of the ZL was 23.4 ± 2.1mm and 26.0 ± 1.3mm respectively. The horizontal distance from the y-axis to the medial end and to the lateral end of the ZL was 8.3 ± 2.7mm and 14.9 ± 3.2mm respectively. Distance from the origin to the medial end and to the lateral end of the ZL was 28.2 ± 1.6mm and 28.9 ± 2.6mm respectively. The angle between the y-axis and the medial and the lateral end of the ZL was 16.4 ± 5.3° and 14.0 ± 1.7° respectively. The parasagittal section of the cheek skin of the zygomatic ligament contained an oblique bundle of fibers which connected the dermis to the periosteum. The breaking strength of the zygomatic ligament was 26.8 ± 1.8 N (range 22.5 - 32.9 N). Knowledge of location, shape, and mechanical properties of the zygomatic ligament is essential in face rejuvenation surgery.