A classification of cranial implants based on the degree of difficulty in computer design and manufacture.
BACKGROUND
Skull defects usually create aesthetic and functional disturbances to the patient. These defects are currently reconstructed by using computer-aided design and manufacturing processes. Classification of skull defects becomes important in discussing the complexity of reconstruction in clinical practice or comparing clinical results in scientific articles.


METHODS
A more comprehensive classification, which takes into account not only the anatomical location but also the degree of difficulty in designing and manufacturing the implant, is presented here. It is not our intention to describe the different treatment modalities; therefore, only two clinical examples are presented to demonstrate the purpose of classification.


RESULTS
The new classification enables a more detailed comparison of the clinical outcome of different modes of treatment for skull defects.


CONCLUSIONS
The proposed classification reflects the degree of difficulty in designing and manufacturing of implants and can be very useful when comparing treatment results of skull defects for clinical or scientific purposes.
Poukens
Jules
J
Department of Cranio-maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands. jpou@mkg.azm.nl
Laeven
Paul
P
Beerens
Maikel
M
Nijenhuis
Gerard
G
Sloten
Jos Vander
JV
Stoelinga
Paul
P
Kessler
Peter
P
D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D019465:Craniofacial Abnormalities / Q000601:surgery*; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D010027:Osteotomy / Q000379:methods*; D019736:Prostheses and Implants / Q000145:classification*; D011474:Prosthesis Design / Q000379:methods; D017755:Prosthesis Fitting / Q000379:methods*; D012886:Skull / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000601:surgery*