Use of self-reinforced polylactide osteosynthesis devices in craniofacial surgery: a long-term follow-up study.

Self-reinforced polylactic acid or polylactide (SR-PLA) is a biodegradable polymer, which is strong enough to fix weight-bearing cortical bone fractures and osteotomies. We report our experience and follow-up of the use of SR-PLA plates in 15 clinical cranioplasties. Two of the cases are described in greater detail. In one of them SR-PLA plates were used in addition to titanium plates, and in the other an SR-PLA plate fixed with mini-titanium screws was used as the only fixation material. In the other patients SR-PLA plates or wire were used in addition to titanium. So far no complications have been observed in these 15 patients. The only small superficial fistula was associated with a titanium plate and titanium screws. The longest follow-up has been over eight years. Recent results show metal-like deformation properties in addition to complete late resorption, making SR-PLA osteosynthesis devices promising for use in craniofacial surgery.

Neomembranes: a concept review with special reference to self-reinforced polyglycolide membranes.

Absorbable implants are being increasingly used in various fields of medicine. Important materials for these applications include the polyesters polylactide and polyglycolide. Following implantation of any absorbable device there occurs a proliferation of fibrous tissue, which along with material from the degrading implant forms a composite membranous structure-a neomembrane. Neomembranes can be exploited in guiding tissue regeneration. Success in this respect has been achieved in treatment of bone defects, nerve defects, and periodontal ligaments. Future research may ultimately permit taking advantage of neomembranes in the reconstruction of more complex organs such as the liver. Gaining an understanding of implant characteristics and implant-tissue interaction is essential for further progress in this area.