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Custom implants for reconstruction of craniofacial defects.
Archives of Surgery (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|April 1, 1976
Summary
Custom silicone implants fabricated with room-temperature vulcanizing silicone offer a simple, effective solution for obliterating defects. This technique boasts high success rates and reduces operative time, avoiding donor scars.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Medical Device Fabrication
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Custom silicone implants are utilized for reconstructive purposes.
- Room-temperature vulcanizing (RTV) silicone offers potential for implant fabrication.
Observation:
- A novel method for fabricating custom silicone implants using Dow Corning Medical Grade Elastomer 382 was developed.
- The technique was applied in 34 patient cases over five years.
Findings:
- The custom silicone implant fabrication method demonstrated a high success rate, with 33 out of 34 cases achieving satisfactory results.
- The technique is accurate in defect obliteration, simple to execute, and reduces operative time by eliminating the need for carving or manipulation.
- This method avoids the creation of donor scars and allows for outpatient procedures in some instances.
Implications:
- This RTV silicone implant fabrication technique presents a viable, efficient, and aesthetically advantageous alternative for reconstructive surgery.
- The simplicity and effectiveness of this method could lead to wider adoption in clinical practice, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.