Resorbable Fixation Plates in Head and Neck Surgery

A skeletal fixation system employing plates made of polylactic and polyglycolic acid has been employed at Indiana University Medical Center since July 1993 in 105 craniofacial reconstructions, 45 cases of maxillofacial trauma, 10 craniotomy flap repairs, and five cases involving reconstruction of the laryngotrachea. Because these plates eventually resorb, they offer significant theoretical advantages. No inhibition of structural growth should occur when using this system in children. Tissue tolerance of these plates has been excellent. The technical details of using heat to allow reshaping of the plates as well as the methods of fixation of the plates are discussed.