Cranioplasty for acquired skull defects in children--a comparison between autologous material and methylmethacrylate 1974-1990

The authors report on their experiences with 21 patients with skull defects which were closed by polymethylmethacrylated plates (PMMA) from 1974 to 1990 at the University Children's Hospital in Zurich and the "Gemeinschaftspraxis fuer Kinderchirurgie". The results were compared with 15 cases treated by autologous grafts. Because of false indication, one case of PMMA-plasty led to an infected fistula. Otherwise no adverse reactions were noted. Three of the 15 cases with autologous grafts showed resorption. Polymethylmethacrylate is an excellent agent for skull reconstruction. The simple procedure, shorter OP time, and lack of pain or disfigurement due to a donor site signify a great advantage to this method.