Importance of Three-Dimensional Modeling in Cranioplasty

Cranioplasty is a reconstruction operation made to protect intracranial structures. It is applied for the closure of bone defects occurring due to causes such as trauma, tumor, infection, and infarct. Many different products changing from autologous bone grafts to synthetic materials are used for cranioplasty. Three-dimensional printers that are among the popular innovations of today are used gradually more in medical area as in every field of life and they make the surgical operation easier. When customizable materials are combined with technology, the authors come across successful results and less complications. The aim of the authors' study was to show a 3-dimensional modeling method in 2 patients the authors applied cranioplasty and the advantages provided by this method for the surgeon and the patient. Address correspondence and reprint requests to Ismail Kaya, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Faculty, Dumlupinar University, Kutahya, Turkey 43040; E-mail: dr.ikaya85@gmail.com Received 19 December, 2017 Accepted 26 September, 2018 The authors report no conflicts of interest. © 2019 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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