Related Experiment Videos
A delayed complication with steel wire osteosynthesis
L C Rovati1, M Pricca, E P Caronni
1Institute of Plastic and Maxillo-Facial Surgery, University of Milan, San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.
Insights
A child treated for hyperteleorbitism developed pneumococcal meningitis due to a steel wire complication. Surgical removal of the wire and dura repair resolved the issue, highlighting potential risks of osteosynthesis materials.
Area of Science:
- Craniofacial surgery
- Neurosurgery
- Pediatric surgery
Background:
- Hyperteleorbitism, a rare condition, necessitates surgical correction.
- Facial bipartition osteosynthesis using steel wire is a surgical technique for craniofacial reconstruction.
Observation:
- A 6-year-old child underwent frontal bone osteosynthesis for hyperteleorbitism.
- Seven years post-surgery, the patient experienced two episodes of pneumococcal meningitis.
Findings:
- Imaging revealed the steel wire had migrated into the frontal sinus, contacting the dura mater.
- Surgical removal of the steel wire and dural repair led to complete recovery.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but serious complication of steel wire osteosynthesis.
- Careful long-term monitoring is crucial for patients with craniofacial implants.
- The findings suggest potential risks associated with implanted materials in proximity to the dura and sinuses.
Abstract:
We treated a 6-year-old child for hyperteleorbitism. We performed a facial bipartition steel wire osteosynthesis of the frontal bone. After 7 years we observed two episodes of pneumococcal meningitis, which were treated with intravenous antibiotic, resulting in a prompt recovery. The computed tomographic scan and nuclear magnetic resonance image showed the steel wire included in the frontal sinus and in contact with the dura mater. Removal of the wire and suture of the dura allowed prompt recovery.