Dynamic spring mediated cranioplasty in an experimental model with resorbable foot plates

Craniofacial surgery continues to be progressive in its approach to maximize function and aesthetic appearance while minimizing risks and complications. Dynamic springs are one way to minimize invasiveness while achieving favorable results. The purpose of this study was to show the safety and efficacy of dynamic springs with resorbable foot plates for treatment of metopic suture abnormalities in a swine model. The study population consisted of twelve 20 kg Chester swine. The swine were divided into two treatment groups: four in the sham surgery group and eight in the stainless steel spring group. Postoperative analysis consisted of evaluation of the skull growth over time and integrity of the foot plates and underlying dura. The swine, killed at 8 weeks, were examined for spring location in the foot plates, ease of removal of the spring, and postmortem histologic analysis of the bone growth. No morbidity or mortality occurred in the immediate perioperative period secondary to the surgery. Postmortem histologic analysis revealed no infections or complications related to the surgery. Statistical analysis using a mixed linear model with an unstructured variance-covariance matrix was fit. In conclusion, this study confirms the efficacy and safety of the spring-mediated cranioplasty at the metopic suture with use of resorbable foot plates in a swine model.