Low-cost customized cranioplasty using a 3D digital printing model: a case report

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Cranial defects necessitate repair for brain protection, pain reduction, and aesthetic improvement.
• Cranioplasty commonly uses implants like titanium or autologous bone, which can be expensive and complex.
• Customized implants offer anatomical precision and reduced operating times, but manufacturing can be costly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a simple, low-cost method for manufacturing customized cranial prostheses.
• To demonstrate the efficacy of a three-dimensional (3D) printing technique for cranial reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• Two patients with cranial defects underwent reconstruction using a 3D printing technique.
• Digital prosthesis models were created from 3D computed tomography data.
• Physical models were 3D printed and used to cast final polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) prostheses.

Main Results:

• The manufactured prostheses precisely matched the osseous defects.
• No complications such as rejection, toxicity, or infection were observed at 6-month follow-up.
• Significant and satisfactory aesthetic improvements were noted.

Conclusions:

• Customized 3D PMMA prostheses provide cost advantages and excellent aesthetic outcomes.
• The technique offers reduced operating time and good biocompatibility.
• This method ensures surgical success for cranial reconstruction.