Osteosynthesis using bioabsorbable skeletal fixation system in facial bone fracture

ABSTRACT

In the practice of modern craniomaxillofacial surgery, there is a general agreement in favor of obtaining solid bony union through the use of titanium and vitallium rigid fixation. These metallic osteosynthesis are not free from inherent drawbacks and limitation. They are liable to have an adverse effect on the growth of the craniofacial skeleton, be a cause of secondary bony resorption, increase risk of infection, result in palpability or exposure and cause artifact in radiologic imaging. These can lead to undue secondary operations necessitating their removal. To overcome there shortcomings, there had been a continuous research on the development of a bioabsorbable skeletal fixation system using polymer of polylactic and polyglycolic acid. Recently, with introduction and commercial availability of a product(Lactosorb, Walter Lorenz) with a minimized resorption period and foreign body reaction, there is an increasing acceptance of its use as an alternative fixation device in craniomaxillofacial surgery. In effort to extend its use in facial bone fractures, Tatum and Eppley were the first report in its successful application in a clinical setting. We report on the clinical experience of such bioabsorbable rigid fixation in patients with maxillofacial trauma. In included one adult and three children in their growth period, underwent open reduction of facial bone fractures. They were followed up in terms of clinical and radiologic outcome for six months. Stalbe and adequate longterm fixation was obtained and no recurrences were noted.