One-Stage Reconstruction of Infected Cranial Defects Using a Titanium Mesh Plate Enclosed in an Omental Flap

In Brief Cranial osteomyelitis is a common complication of brain surgery. A one-stage reconstructive repair of the cranial bone is desirable, but risks active infection. The authors have developed a reconstructive technique for osteomyelitis-related cranial defects that fills the dead space with an omental flap and uses a titanium mesh plate for the structural element. This report describes the successful treatment of 8 patients using this approach. Eight patients with active post-operative cranial osteomyelitis were successfully treated with single-stage placement of a titanium mesh plate completely encased in a free omental transfer. No recurrences of osteomyelitis ensued.