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Resorbable plate fixation in pediatric craniofacial surgery: long-term outcome
M J Imola1, D D Hamlar, W Shao
1Center for Craniofacial-Skull Base Surgery, 1601 E 19th Ave, Suite 3100, Denver, CO 80218, USA. mjimola@qwest.net
Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery
|May 23, 2001
Summary
Resorbable plate fixation shows high efficacy in pediatric craniofacial surgery, with excellent bone healing and minimal complications. This advanced technique offers a safe alternative to traditional metal fixation for young patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery
- Biomaterials in Orthopedics
- Surgical Fixation Devices
Background:
- Traditional metal fixation in pediatric craniofacial surgery poses risks like hardware complications.
- Resorbable implants offer a potential alternative to overcome these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of resorbable plate fixation in pediatric craniofacial surgery.
- To compare outcomes with traditional metal fixation methods.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 57 pediatric craniofacial fixation cases using resorbable plates and screws.
- Analysis of bone healing (union, malunion, nonunion) and complications (extrusion, infection).
Main Results:
- 96% anatomical union and uncomplicated healing in midfacial/upper face procedures (54 patients).
- Low complication rate (3.7% plate extrusion), managed conservatively.
- Comparable outcomes and costs to metal osteosynthesis.
Conclusions:
- Bioresorbable plate fixation is effective and safe for pediatric craniofacial surgery.
- Recommended for low-stress, non-load-bearing areas, offering an advantage over metal implants.
- Represents a significant advancement despite an initial learning curve.