Cranioplasty: Autogenous Bone Graft Versus Artificial Substitutes

Cranioplasty is the surgical intervention to repair cranial defects. The aim of cranioplasty is not only a cosmetic issue; also, the repair of cranial defects gives relief to psychological drawbacks and increases the social performances. Many different types of materials were used throughout the history of cranioplasty. With the evolving biomedical technology, new materials are available to be used by the surgeons. Although many different materials and techniques had been described, ongoing researches on both biologic and non biologic substitutions continue aiming to develop the ideal reconstruction material.

Autologous bone grafts remain the best option for adult and pediatric patients with viable donor sites and small-to-medium defects. Large defects in the adult population can be reconstructed with titanium mesh and polymethylmethacrylate overlay with or without the use of computer-assisted design and manufacturing customization. Advances in alloplastic materials and custom manufacturing of implants will have an important influence on cranioplasty techniques in the years to come.