A method of cranioplasty using coralline hydroxyapatite

Introduction: Current cranioplasty materials include autologous or homologous bone grafts, wire mesh and methyl methacrylate, either alone or in combination. However, each material has its own unique disadvantages. Although hydroxyapatite has been used extensively in other specialties as a bone substitute, the coralline form has rarely been used to repair cranial bone defects. Coralline hydroxyapatite, similar to that found in bone, provides a matrix on which living tissue can form and grow. Because it is an ideal bioimplant, a method of cranioplasty using coralline hydroxyapatite was employed. Methods: The hydroxyapatite granules are mixed with Avitene and autologous blood to form a paste which can be countoured as needed. Results: Over the past few years, we have used hydroxyapatite either alone or in combination with tantalum mesh in 19 pediatric patients for a variety of conditions. The cosmetic results were good to excellent. Furthermore, postoperative CT scans have documented bony substitution of the hydroxyapatite granules. Follow-up ranged from 1 to 43 months with a mean of 26 months. Conclusion: In neurosurgical procedures when a bone substitute is needed, hydroxyapatite is an effective alternative to other currently available materials.