Use of bioabsorbable plates for cranial fixation

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Neurosurgery
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Titanium plates are standard for cranial fixation but cause aesthetic concerns and radiographic artifacts.
• Bioabsorbable plates address these issues but can be thicker and more expensive.
• LactoSorb, a bioabsorbable polymer, demonstrates strength comparable to titanium.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel technique for cranial fixation using bioabsorbable LactoSorb plates.
• To overcome the disadvantages of thickness and cost associated with absorbable plates.
• To evaluate the aesthetic and safety outcomes of this technique in adult patients.

Main Methods:

• Developed a technique of inserting LactoSorb plates into the diploe for cranial fixation.
• Applied the method in a cohort of 46 patients undergoing craniotomy.
• Utilized a bioabsorbable polymer composed of 82% poly-L-lactic acid and 18% polyglycolic acid.

Main Results:

• Aesthetically favorable outcomes were achieved in all 46 patients.
• No intraoperative or postoperative complications were reported.
• The technique effectively addressed the limitations of standard absorbable plates.

Conclusions:

• Inserting bioabsorbable plates into the diploe is a viable and effective method for cranial fixation.
• This technique offers aesthetic advantages and avoids radiographic artifacts associated with titanium.
• Bioabsorbable plates, particularly LactoSorb, show potential to replace titanium for cranial fixation, especially in adults with thin scalps.