Computer-modeled cranioplasty from porous polyethylene in high-risk terrain

Aim: According to the literature, cranioplasty is associated with up to 50% risk of complications. The most common complication is wound infection. Porous polyethylene is considered to be an allogenic material with the lowest rate of infection. The aim of this study was to verify the assumed low rate of wound infections after implantation of porous polyethylene, even in high-risk terrain. The secondary objective was to assess the loosening of the implant fixed with mini-plates and the exposure of the implant. Methods: A group of 12 patients who underwent a customized computer-modeled 3D cranioplasty from porous polyethylene in a high-risk terrain was followed prospectively between 2014 and 2021. The high-risk terrain was defined as a previous wound infection, repeated surgeries with resorption or loosening of the bone or an implant and an open frontal sinus. The occurrence of listed complications was evaluated through physical examination and CT. Results: In total, there were 12 cranioplasties performed in 12 patients. The average follow-up period was 47 months. In five cases, cranioplasty was indicated after an wound infection, four times after repeated surgeries with the resorption or loosening of the bone or implant, and in three cases in the terrain of the open frontal sinus. Eight patients had a combination of two risk factors. No patient had wound infection after cranioplasty. In all cases, fixation with mini-plates was sufficient, and no implant was exposed. Conclusion: Our study confirmed high reliability and low risk of wound infection of porous polyethylene, even in a high-risk terrain.