Precision Reconstruction in Frontal Defect with Customized PMMA Cranial Implant

Patient Overview 

A 25-year-old male presented with a frontal defect and fractured bone pieces reconstructed in a previous surgery. The surgeon requested a customized cranial implant solution tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy to achieve a successful outcome. 

Surgical Planning 

The surgical team meticulously planned the procedure by designing a customized PMMA (Polymethylmethacrylate) cranial plate implant. The implant was crafted to reconstruct the skull’s frontal bone curvature accurately. 

Key steps included: 

1. Designing the plate in two parts for precise alignment with the bone structure. 
2. Utilizing 3D printing technology to create both a skull bone model and a customized PMMA implant to ensure proper fitment and validate the design before surgery. 

3D-Printed, Patient-Specific Solution 

The use of 3D printing allowed the surgical team to: 

• Visualize and evaluate the frontal bone defect. 

• Confirm the implant’s fit and curvature to the patient’s anatomy. 

• Manufacture a durable, biocompatible PMMA cranial plate, ensuring stability and precision during surgery. 

 

Post-op Outcome 

The surgery was highly successful because: 

• The cranial plates were fixed securely without any loosening during the procedure. 

• The patient demonstrated significant improvement in both functional and cosmetic aspects post-surgery. 

The combination of advanced 3D planning and a customized implant underscored the critical role of innovative technology in achieving precise and safe outcomes.