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A new method of acrylic cranioplasty
1Department of Neurological Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA.
Background:
Previous acrylic cranioplasty techniques have relied on wire or suture fixation of the acrylic to the skull. A new methyl methacrylate cranioplasty technique, using acrylic with titanium plating, is described.
Methods:
Titanium plates were bent into a "Z" shape and attached to the skull at the perimeter of the skull defect, extending into the defect. The acrylic was then poured into the defect and held in place during setting with a sheet of plastic. The plates are thereby embedded in the acrylic.
Results:
Standard methyl methacrylate and titanium plates and screws were used to perform a new method of cranioplasty.
Conclusions:
A rigid, form-fitting, aesthetic construct can be easily and quickly created. This technique also offers the benefit of allowing secondary craniotomy, if necessary.