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Craniofacial Prosthetic Reconstruction Using Polymethyl Methacrylate Implant: A Case Report
Paul Simon1, Jayashree Mohan1, Sunantha Selvaraj1
1Vinayaka Mission's Snakarachariyar Dental College, Salem, India.
Journal of Indian Prosthodontic Society
|July 23, 2015
Summary
Reconstructing large cranial defects is complex. Heat cure polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) offers a safe, economic, and adaptable solution for cranial implants, yielding excellent cosmetic results.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Reconstructing large, complex cranial defects presents significant surgical challenges.
- Cranial implants require specific material properties: inertness, lightweight, ease of fitting, and adaptability for optimal aesthetics and function.
Observation:
- A clinical case report details the reconstruction of a parieto-temporal cranial defect resulting from osteomyelitis.
- The defect was successfully reconstructed using a custom-fabricated heat cure polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) implant.
Findings:
- The heat cure PMMA implant demonstrated excellent adaptability to the cranial vault defect.
- Surgical closure was facilitated by titanium wires, requiring minimal prosthesis contouring.
- The patient achieved excellent cosmetic outcomes with no post-operative complications.
Implications:
- Heat cure PMMA presents a viable, cost-effective alternative for cranial reconstruction.
- This material offers a safe and adaptable solution for complex cranial defects, improving patient aesthetics and function.
