A new technique for correction of trigonocephaly in an infant: application of an absorbable endocranial plate

Abstract 

We report on a new method of cranial bone osteofixation using absorbable material, which is applied endocranially to avoid the application of a thick, cosmetically inferior system epicranially in the frontal area. This is especially important in the correction of deformity in trigonocephaly cases. A 9-month-old boy presented with a prominent trigonocephalic deformity. Cranioplasty was performed, in which a supraorbital bar (bandeau) was removed, reinforced with a self-reinforced polylactide (SR-PLA) plate and reshaped to correct the deformity. The plate was applied on the inner side of the bony bar, with its ends fixed epicranially to the temporal bones by means of SR-PLA miniscrews. 3-D CT scans and rapid prototypes were used to evaluate the results. Stable and secure fixation was obtained, and the cosmetic result appeared excellent. No complications occurred during the postoperative period of 1 year. Hence, stabilisation of cranial bone can be achieved endocranially using an absorbable plate and screws, with an encouraging cosmetic result. The method is thought to be reliable.