Computer-Designed Implants for Calvarial Bone Defects

Czech version

Authors: P. Buchvald ¹; L. Čapek ² ; P. Suchomel ¹
Authors‘ workplace: Ne urochirurgické oddělení Krajské nemocnice Liberec, a. s., 2Strojní fakulta Technické univerzity v Liberci ¹
Published in: Cesk Slov Neurol N 2009; 72/105(2): 169-172
Category: Short Communication

Overview

The most frequent procedure used in the Czech Republic for the closure of acquired calvarial bone defects (cranioplasty) uses the modelling of an acrylic implant, which solidifies gradually, into the desired shape directly in the theatre on the basis of the surgeon’s estimate. However, even minor inaccuracy in an implant modelled this way may have far-reaching clinical and cosmetic consequences. Problems can be avoided by modelling implants using digital data obtained from spiral computer tomography. The data is processed by a special graphic program and converted from the virtual computer form to reality with the use of the 3D printing method. The mould which is thus created is used for casting a precise implant “tailored” to the specific patient. The article reports on a group of ten patients who underwent the surgery and provides a detailed description of the above technique.

Key words:
cranioplasty– decompressive craniotomy – reverse engineering

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