Methylmethacrylate onlay implants in the treatment of forehead deformities secondary to craniosynostosis

Craniosynostosis (Cruzon's, Pfeiffer's and Apert's Syndrome, etc.) can cause forehead deformities that frequently need reconstruction. In general, osteotomies and/or bone grafting are the preferred methods for obtaining proper orbital protection from above and a good aesthetic appearance. In certain cases however, osteotomies and/or bone grafting are not possible or a patient may refuse to have such an extensive procedure. Preformed methylmethacrylate prostheses have in such cases been implanted in patients with significant skull deformities with only minimal morbidity. The ease of this technique coupled with the shortened operative time, minimal hospitalization, and few, minor complications offer the reconstructive surgeon another and relatively simple method for treatment of extensive forehead and supraorbital deformities.