Fractures of the sphenoid bone occur following injury to the orbit and base of the skull. Such fractures are important since they can cause loss of vision and damage to various neural and muscular tissues. Ocular injury is also commonly associated. This paper reviews the hospital records of 112 consecutive patients with fractures of the base of the skull for the cause, frequency of signs and symptoms, and treatment of the sphenoid bone injury. Various deformities and dysfunctions are correlated with imaging data and classified to describe specific clinical syndromes. Several cases of sphenoid bone fracture serve as examples of diagnostic and treatment techniques. HEAD & NECK SURGERY 8:447-455, 1 986.
Fractures of the sphenoid bone are uncommon, but can occur after sudden trauma to the facial skeleton and skull. Sphenoid fractures can be associated with a variety of craniofacial injuries and neural and muscular deficits. Successful management depends upon early diagnosis and appropriate surgical and medical regimens.
The purpose of this paper is to determine the cause and frequency of sphenoid fractures and their association with other injuries. Various types of deformities and dysfunctions found with the sphenoid fractures will be presented and classified to describe specific clinical syndromes. Methods of treatment will be discussed.