What are the clinical features of a Le Fort 2 fracture?

A Le Fort 2 fracture is characterized as a pyramidal fracture that involves the nasal bridge as well as the maxilla. This type of fracture typically results from significant blunt trauma to the midface region, causing a fracture pattern that extends from the nasal bridge down to the maxilla and often involves the zygomatic bones. The involvement of the nasal bridge is a key feature, which distinguishes it from other types of facial fractures. Due to these distinctive patterns, patients may present with facial deformity, mobility of the midfacial structures, and potential complications like airway issues or vision problems, depending on the severity and extent of the fracture.

The other options do not accurately describe the features of a Le Fort 2 fracture. A single horizontal fracture above the teeth describes a Le Fort 1 fracture, while the concept of a floating palate pertains to a Le Fort 3 fracture, which involves separation of the entire midfacial skeleton from the cranial base. The mention of a floating face with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhoea suggests a more severe craniofacial injury associated with a Le Fort 3 fracture or other cranial trauma, which does not correspond with the Le Fort 2 classification.