ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To summarize the classification, property of skull repair material and the processing of related complications in the application of repairing and remodeling the skull.METHODS: The PubMed database (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PubMed) and CNKI Database (www.cnki.net/index.htm) was searched by the first author using key words of "codubix, synmesh, and bone cement" both in English and Chinese. Articles whose content is related to the types, property, biocompatibility and its application effect of skull repairing materials were selected. In the same field, the articles published by authoritative journals or different races were preferred. The repetitive or obsolete literatures were excluded. After that 26 documents were included in this paper.RESULTS: The bone cement exhibited good histocompatibility, however, it is difficult to be absorbed, thus, it only be used for repairing part of skull defects. The study found that titanium had good biocompatibility and could combine with the skull. Its application had a promising prospect, but there are many inadequacies. With the continuous deepening of bio-engineering, bone tissue engineering, and cartilage tissue engineering, it will provide a broader perspective for the study of skull repair materials.CONCLUSION: There are many kinds of materials for skull repairing, and this paper only introduces some of the widely used ones. Actually, the selection of repairing materials should consider the pathogenetic condition, economic condition, local equipment and technical levels. If possible, titanium mesh and titanium screw are preferred, which is characterized by easy operation, few complication and beautiful appearance: When using autogenous bone or bone cements, if related complications can be reduced and handled effectively, the results will be satisfactory.