title: Split-rib cranioplasty.
abstract: Cranioplasty using a synthetic material is less than ideal, especially if there is a history of infection at the defect site. Split-rib cranioplasty is a practical approach even in patients with a positive history of infection at or around the defect. We briefly review the historical background of split-rib cranioplasty and report our experience with this procedure in 12 patients. Forty-two pieces of rib, with an average length of 13 cm. were used for reconstruction. We had only 1 complication-a pneumothorax following removal of the rib graft. The follow-up period ranged from three to thirty-six months. All patients had complete regeneration of the donor rib and solid protection of the brain.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001861:Bone Regeneration; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012272:Ribs / Q000637:transplantation*; D012886:Skull / Q000601:surgery*; D014182:Transplantation, Autologous / Q000379:methods