Three-dimensional Morphometric Analysis of the Zygomatic Arch and Temporozygomatic Suture: Implications for Asymmetry and Sexual Dimorphism Arcus Zygomaticusun ve Sutura Temporozygomatica’nın Üç Boyutlu Morfometrik Analizi: Asimetri ve Cinsel Dimorfizm Açısından Değerlendirme
Namik Kemal Medical Journal, cilt.14, sa.3, ss.261-267, 2026 (ESCI, Scopus, TRDizin)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 14 Sayı: 3
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.4274/nkmj.galenos.2026.56887
- Dergi Adı: Namik Kemal Medical Journal
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.261-267
- Anahtar Kelimeler: cephalometry, facial asymmetry, zygoma, Zygomatic arch
- Açık Arşiv Koleksiyonu: AVESİS Açık Erişim Koleksiyonu
- İstanbul Kent Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Aim: The zygomatic arch (arcus zygomaticus) forms a critical anatomical bridge between the viscerocranium and neurocranium, contributing to facial width, aesthetics and masticatory biomechanics. The temporozygomatic suture, which connects the temporal and zygomatic components of the arch, plays an important role in midfacial stability and is frequently involved in surgical interventions. Despite its clinical relevance, detailed three-dimensional morphometric data regarding the localization and variability of this suture remain limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the three-dimensional morphometric localization of the temporozygomatic suture along the zygomatic arch and to determine side- and sex-related differences. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted using computed tomography–based three-dimensional reconstructions. Standardized orientation protocols were applied, and morphometric measurements were obtained to assess the localization of the temporozygomatic suture along the zygomatic arch. Analyses were performed with respect to side-related asymmetry and sex-related differences. Results: The findings revealed significant sexual dimorphism in several projection-related parameters of the zygomatic arch. A consistent left-sided predominance was observed in the localization of the temporozygomatic suture and in measurements related to the temporal process of the zygomatic bone, whereas the zygomatic process of the temporal bone demonstrated relative stability across sexes and sides. Conclusion: The results indicate that variability of the zygomatic arch is segment-specific and influenced by both sex and laterality. Recognition of these three-dimensional anatomical patterns may improve surgical planning, radiological interpretation, and forensic assessments involving the zygomatic and temporal regions.