Polymethylmethacrylate Microspheres/Collagen as a Tissue Augmenting Agent

BACKGROUND: Polymethylmethacrylate microspheres/collagen has been used in Canada since 1998. A closely related product will probably be approved in the United States shortly. Concerns have been expressed about the use of permanent fillers such as this. OBJECTIVE: This retrospective study of the authors' clinical practice is designed to reflect their experience with this agent. In particular, the authors describe some of the problems they have seen. RESULTS: Polymethylmethacrylate microspheres/collagen has behaved as a satisfactory long-term tissue augmenting agent in the authors' practice. They have had the opportunity of managing any number of patients with Artecoll granulomas and describe these patients. CONCLUSION: When polymethylmethacrylate microspheres/collagen is introduced to the United States, practitioners will need to learn how to use this exacting agent and will obtain excellent results with careful use.