AEMCA Practice Exam

What is the defining characteristic of Le Fort fracture type 2?

1. Fracture starting at the nasal bridge and crossing through the maxilla

2. Fracture affecting the entire skull

3. Fracture only involving nasal bones

4. Fracture limited to the zygomatic arch

The correct answer is: Fracture starting at the nasal bridge and crossing through the maxilla

The defining characteristic of Le Fort fracture type 2 is indeed a fracture that initiates at the nasal bridge and traverses through the maxilla. This type of fracture is categorized by a pyramidal shape that includes involvement of the nasal bones, the maxilla, and the structures surrounding the orbit. In this type of fracture, the maxilla becomes separated from the upper facial skeleton due to the fracture line forming a triangular pattern, which often results in significant mobility of the facial structures. Recognizing this defining characteristic is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning, as it indicates the extent of facial trauma and the potential for associated complications. The other options describe different types or aspects of fractures that do not align with the specific features of Le Fort type 2. For example, a fracture that only involves nasal bones refers to a completely different injury and does not encompass the complexities seen in type 2 fractures. Similarly, fractures affecting the entire skull or limited to the zygomatic arch pertain to other classifications entirely, demonstrating how critical it is to accurately identify and understand the defining features of Le Fort fractures in clinical practice.