Duraplasty: Our current experience

BACKGROUND A large variety of biologic and artificial materials have been suggested as dural substitutes. However, no ideal material for dural repair in neurosurgical procedures has been identified. The authors report their experience with Tutoplast processed dura and pericardium. METHODS This study is designed to evaluate Tutoplast dura and pericardium. The study population was composed of 250 consecutive patients who underwent cerebral duraplasty with these homologous materials between 1996 and 1998. The average follow-up was 5.4 years. RESULTS We have observed only four complications with uncertain relationship with the dural implant. These resulted in complete recovery. CONCLUSIONS We support the efficacy and safety of this natural dural substitute treated with Tutoplast method. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.