[Long-term results of plastic skull repairs with acrylic resins]

In the period from the beginning of 1956 until June 1978, we closed 312 skull gaps with acrylic resin. We used Palacos G (group I) 205 times and Refobacin Palacos R (group II) 107 times. Owing to the antibiotic action of Palacos, the infection rate, which was 6.8 per cent in the first group, could be lowered to 1.07 per cent even with a larger range of indications. The cosmetic results were very satisfactory. Owing to only slight changes in consistency and elasticity, a good protection of the brain was ensured. With the exception of one patient who temporarily showed psychic alterations, the acrylic resin was not felt as a foreign body. Disagreeable sensations, especially in case of the action of heat and cold such as are occasionally mentioned by wearers of metal plates, did not occur in our patients. Formation of neoplasms caused by polymethyl methacrylate has been found in none of the patients during the observation period of 20 years. The plastic repair with acrylic resin can be carried out quickly and in a simple manner. It may be used in all regions of the cranium. Even larger defects can be closed in this way.