Journal of cranio-maxillo-facial surgery : official publication of the European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery
-
J Craniomaxillofac Surg · Sep 2011
Microsurgical reconstruction of the head and neck--current practice of maxillofacial units in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
Refinement in microvascular reconstructive techniques over the last 30 years has enabled an increasing number of patients to be rehabilitated for both functional and aesthetic reasons. The purpose of this study was to evaluate different microsurgical practice, including perioperative management, in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The DÖSAK collaborative group for Microsurgical Reconstruction developed a detailed questionnaire which was circulated to units in the three countries. ⋯ In the postoperative course, 15.8% of hospitals use inhibitors of platelet aggregation, most hospitals use low molecular heparin (52.6%) or other heparin products (44.7%). This survey shows variation in the performance, management, and care of microsurgical reconstructions of patients. This is due in part to the microvascular surgeons available in the unit but it is also due to different types of hospitals where various types of care can be performed in these patients needing special perioperative care.
-
J Craniomaxillofac Surg · Sep 2011
A treatment algorithm for patients with large skull bone defects and first results.
Large skull bone defects resulting from craniotomies due to cerebral insults, trauma or tumours create functional and aesthetic disturbances to the patient. The reconstruction of large osseous defects is still challenging. A treatment algorithm is presented based on the close interaction of radiologists, computer engineers and cranio-maxillofacial surgeons. ⋯ The treatment algorithm is proved to be reliable. No corrections had to be performed either to the skull bone or to the implant. Short operations and hospitalization periods are essential prerequisites for treatment success and justify the high expenses.