A treatment algorithm for patients with large skull bone defects and first results.
Large skull bone defects resulting from craniotomies due to cerebral insults, trauma or tumours create functional and aesthetic disturbances to the patient. The reconstruction of large osseous defects is still challenging. A treatment algorithm is presented based on the close interaction of radiologists, computer engineers and cranio-maxillofacial surgeons. From 2004 until today twelve consecutive patients have been operated on successfully according to this treatment plan. Titanium and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) were used to manufacture the implants. The treatment algorithm is proved to be reliable. No corrections had to be performed either to the skull bone or to the implant. Short operations and hospitalization periods are essential prerequisites for treatment success and justify the high expenses.
Department of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, P. Debyelaan, NL-6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands. bernd.lethaus@mumc.nl
Bernd
B
Lethaus
Marielle Poort
MP
Ter Laak
Paul
P
Laeven
Maikel
M
Beerens
David
D
Koper
Jules
J
Poukens
Peter
P
Kessler
D000328:Adult; D000465:Algorithms; D001577:Benzophenones; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D001860:Bone Plates; D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D003399:Craniotomy / Q000009:adverse effects; D019091:Critical Pathways; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D007659:Ketones; D007902:Length of Stay; D056888:Patient Positioning; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols; D011108:Polymers; D019736:Prostheses and Implants / Q000191:economics; D011474:Prosthesis Design / Q000379:methods*; D019919:Prosthesis Implantation; D011873:Radiology Information Systems; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods; D012886:Skull / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery*; D014025:Titanium; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
D001577:Benzophenones; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D007659:Ketones; D011108:Polymers; C063834:polyetheretherketone; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols; D014025:Titanium