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Intraosseous plating: a new method for biodegradable osteofixation in craniofacial surgery
H H Peltoniemi1, R M Tulamo, T Toivonen
1Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki, Finland. Hilkka.Peltoniemi@Helsinki.FI
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|May 20, 1998
Summary
Biodegradable self-reinforced poly-L-lactide (SR-PLLA) miniplates show excellent biocompatibility for intraosseous plating. Histological analysis revealed minimal adverse tissue reactions and good bone integration over 52 weeks.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Histology
Background:
- Biodegradable implants eliminate the need for removal surgery.
- Intraosseous plating is advantageous in areas with thin soft tissues to prevent palpability and swelling.
- Self-reinforced poly-L-lactide (SR-PLLA) is a promising biodegradable material for surgical fixation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the histological and histomorphometric tissue reaction to SR-PLLA miniplates and miniscrews.
- To assess the biocompatibility and resorption profile of intraosseously implanted SR-PLLA devices.
- To determine the suitability of SR-PLLA for craniofacial intraosseous plating.
Main Methods:
- Histological and histomorphometric analysis of sheep calvarium implants.
- Implantation of 0.5-mm-thick SR-PLLA plates and SR-PLLA miniscrews.
- Follow-up periods of 6, 20, and 52 weeks post-implantation.
Main Results:
- No adverse tissue reactions (foreign body reaction, osteolysis) were observed.
- Implants achieved direct contact with remodeled, dense bone tissue by 52 weeks.
- Intraosseous plate parts showed no fragmentation or resorption; screw heads fragmented and resorbed.
Conclusions:
- SR-PLLA miniplates demonstrate excellent biocompatibility for intraosseous fixation.
- The material is suitable for plating in less loaded craniofacial areas, especially with thin soft tissue coverage.
- The screw head is not essential and can be removed, simplifying the fixation method.