Primary and secondary reconstruction of complex craniofacial defects using polyetheretherketone custom-made implants

The aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical outcomes using polyetheretherketone (PEEK) patient-specific prostheses produced by computer-aided design and manufacturing for primary and secondary reconstruction in patients with craniofacial defects.

The study included 13 patients who underwent reconstruction for craniofacial defects using PEEK patient-specific implants (PSI). Eight patients underwent single-step primary reconstruction using individual custom-made surgical guides and custom-made prostheses during the same surgery; five patients underwent delayed reconstruction. The material used to manufacture the implants was PEEK in 13 cases. All patients underwent esthetic examination, ophthalmological examination, and radiological evaluation during the preoperative and follow-up periods. The operation duration and short- and long-term complications were recorded.

The shape and global position of the implants were satisfactory in each case. Fitting of the implant during surgery required extensive adaptation in 1 case and minor in 11 cases. Of 13 implants, 11 adequately restored a morphological complex area with satisfactory cosmetic results. No complications related to the implants were reported.

Reconstruction for cranio-facial defects using PEEK computer-aided designed and manufactured implants is a promising new technique that allows for accurate restoration of the complex 3D anatomy of the craniofacial region.