[Osteosynthesis and plastic surgery of the visceral cranium (author's transl)]

The conservative treatment of fractures of the visceral cranium and the base of the skull has become separated to an increasing extent from the earlier reconstructive measures of the facial surgeon. The skull is restored with due consideration for the anatomical function and cosmetic factors. Wire osteosynthesis, maxillary and mandibular splinting, fixing to the skeleton by Adam's clasp, reconstruction of soft parts, filling of skin defects precede the subsequent functional follow-up therapy. Exact diagnosis and interdisciplinary planning of treatment before the early intervention are of more value for the patient with a damaged skull than precipitate emergency measures under conditions of inadequate equipment and personnel. A plan of treatment from a background of 230 of our own cases is presented.