Personalized 3D-printed cranial implants for complex cranioplasty using open-source software

• Published in: Surgical neurology international Vol. 15; p. 39
• Main Authors: Kopačin, Vjekoslav, Zubčić, Vedran, Mumlek, Ivan, Mužević, Dario, Rončević, Alen, Lazar, Ana-Maria, Pavić, Ana Kvolik, Koruga, Anamarija Soldo, Krivdić, Zdravka, Martinović, Ivana, Koruga, Nenad
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 2024
• Subjects: Open-source; Printing; 3D Printing; Implant; Precision medicine; Prosthetic; Three-dimensional; Patient care; Cranioplasty; Personalized medicine; Polymethyl methacrylate
• ISSN: 2229-5097

Cranioplasty is a routine neurosurgery treatment used to correct cranial vault abnormalities. Utilization of 3D printing technology in the field of cranioplasty involving the reconstruction of cranial defects emerged as an advanced possibility of anatomical reshaping. The transformative impact of patient-specific 3D printed implants, focuses on their remarkable accuracy, customization capabilities, and enhanced biocompatibility. The precise adaptation of implants to patient-specific anatomies, even in complex cases we presented, result in improved aesthetic outcomes and reduced surgical complications. The ability to create highly customized implants addresses the functional aspects of cranial defects and considers the psychological impact on patients. By combining technological innovation with personalized patient care, 3D printed cranioplasty emerges as a transformative avenue in cranial reconstruction, ultimately redefining the standards of success in neurosurgery. 3D printing allows an excellent cranioplasty cosmesis achieved at a reasonable price without sacrificing patient outcomes. Wider implementation of this strategy can lead to significant healthcare cost savings.