Zygomaticomaxillary Complex (ZMC)

In the past the ZMC was frequently referred to as a tripod but functionally it is more correct to consider it as having four legs, like a four-legged stool. This analogy helps to understand the likely sites of fracture and displacement when the ZMC is struck by a direct blow.

Below are the anatomical structures corresponding to the four legs of the stool?

Lateral orbital rim
Inferior orbital rim
Zygomaticomaxillary buttress – the thickened area of bone forming the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus
Zygomatic arch

zygomaticomaxillary_complex