Reconstruction of Cranial Defect With Individualized PEEK Implant: Case Report

Abstract

Cranial defects have various origins: trauma, decompression procedures, tumors, infections, congenital injuries or iatrogenesis [4]. In all these cases, where there is both a morpho-functional and a psychological alteration, cranioplasty has demonstrated its contribution, giving protection to noble structures, restoring aesthet-Abstract Introduction: Cranioplasty has numerous indications, and its main objective is to support the underlying noble structures, along with restoring shape and aesthetics. The treatment of choice is controversial, and is mainly related to the type of material to be used. Material and methods: We present the case of a 44-yearold woman with a left fronto-temporo-parietaldefect, who underwent a cranioplasty with a customized polyetheretherketone (PEEK) prosthesis. Results: There were no complications in the perioperative period, nor were there rejection reactions, infection or exposure of the implant in the postoperative period, with satisfactory aesthetic (improvement of the cranial contour) and functional results due to the excellent fit and material properties. Conclusions: The choice of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) as a reconstructive material in craniofacial defects has proven to be a safe method, with good clinical results when compared to other reconstruction materials.