CRANIOPLASTY: REVIEW OF MATERIALS AND METHODS

Abstract

Reconstructive plastic surgeries, in particular cranioplasty, are becoming increasingly common in modern neurosurgical practice. The presence of a skull bone defect not only leads to cosmetic imperfections and related psychological problems, but can also cause neurological disorders. Reconstruction of skull defects is considered an important neurosurgical stage in the recovery of victims after a traumatic brain injury. Currently, there are no clear algorithms for performing and timing of cranioplasty. The paper presents information on the history of development and stages of formation of reconstructive neurosurgery. The effectiveness of treating trepanned skull syndrome by cranioplasty is proven. The main materials used to close skull bone defects are covered, and the requirements for the material for closing skull defects are described. The disadvantages and advantages of modern materials are presented in detail: autobone, allobone, reperen, polyethertecon, polymethyl methacrylate , titanium, hydroxyapatite. A separate section of the article is devoted to transplant modeling methods - 3D printing and stereolithography. The basic principles of cranioplasty are then formulated. The modern arsenal of materials and methods for performing cranioplasty allows for the closure of cranial bone defects of virtually any size, location and shape, achieving excellent functional and cosmetic results in the postoperative period.