Bioceramics as an option in correction of facial skeleton deformities.

The removal of certain deformities of facial bones is a prerequisite to a restoration of function, stability, and appearance. Synthetic bone substitutes are beneficial in cases where other operative technique would represent an inadequate burden for a patient. A result is achieved in one surgical intervention with low costs and low demands on technical equipment. Biocompatible nonresorbable glass-ceramics based on oxyfluoroapatite and wollastonite presenting osteoconductivity permits osteointegration, i.e., direct physicochemical bonds between live bone tissue and the implant without formation of a fibrous capsule. It presents better durability to stress in simulated body fluid than the usually used hydroxyapatite. It was used for restoration of facial skeletal framework contour in 14 cases under conditions where prior solutions were doubtful. Good results were reached in all patients. The mean time of observation was 18 months. During that period, the rate of complications was 14.3%. This approach may be found to be a suitable technique, especially for patients exhausted by prior unsuccessful treatment but still not acquiesced in a result.

Care of patients with facial clefts at the Department of Plastic Surgery in Prague.

The multidisciplinary care of cleft defects in the Prague Department of Plastic Surgery has a long tradition. The authors describe the team care of patients including the timing of the surgery as well as the conservative therapy.