[The use of resorbable osteosynthesis materials].

INTRODUCTION

Different materials can be used for fixation of fractures or for osteoplastic operations in head and neck surgery. Especially metallic and resorbable implants are at the market now. Advantages and disadvantages of the different implants should be considered as decisive for different indications.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the patients since 1999 which we operated using such resorbable materials. From 1999 until 2006 we used LactoSorb(®). 2007 we introduced the Resorb X(®) plates and -meshs and the SonicWeld Rx-System(®). Here the plates or meshs will be fixed by an ultrasonically welded pin.

RESULTS

In 52 cases we implanted LactoSorb(®) and Resorb X(®) with the SonicWeld Rx-System(®). In 2 cases we saw a foreign body reaction that resulted in a fistula. In one case a plate broke after fixing.

CONCLUSION

The use of resorbable materials with ultrasonically welded pin osteosynthesis resulted in a stable mechanical connection, an easy intraoperative handling and a low rate of complications. Those materials can be used for traumatologic and osteoplastic reconstructions in head and neck surgery.