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Biodegradable fixation in oral and maxillofacial surgery
Darryl M Coombes1, Michael J Shelley, Jeremy McKenzie
1Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, UK.
Dental Update
|January 17, 2008
Summary
Biodegradable plates and screws offer a new option for maxillofacial skeleton fixation after trauma or osteotomy. This study explores the biochemistry and early clinical use of these resorbable materials in craniofacial surgery.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials science
- Orthopedic surgery
- Craniofacial reconstruction
Background:
- Titanium plates and screws have been standard for maxillofacial fixation for 20 years.
- Material science advancements have led to biodegradable/resorbable fixation devices.
- Resorbable materials offer potential advantages over permanent metallic implants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the biochemistry of resorbable materials for maxillofacial fixation.
- To share early clinical experiences with resorbable plates and screws.
- To evaluate the efficacy of biodegradable fixation in craniofacial surgery.
Main Methods:
- Review of the biochemistry of resorbable polymers.
- Presentation of case series using resorbable fixation devices.
- Analysis of early clinical outcomes in patients undergoing maxillofacial osteotomies or trauma repair.
Main Results:
- Resorbable materials demonstrate suitable mechanical properties for maxillofacial fixation.
- Early clinical application shows successful skeletal stabilization.
- No major adverse events reported in the initial patient cohort.
Conclusions:
- Resorbable materials provide a viable alternative for internal fixation of the maxillofacial skeleton.
- The use of biodegradable fixation is effective following osteotomies and trauma.
- Further long-term studies are warranted to fully assess the benefits of resorbable fixation.
