Resorbable Implants in Maxillofacial Surgery: A Reality Check

Abstract

Background: Stability is the main feature of fixation techniques in fracture management modalities, in vogue today. One of the most significant landmarks in the armamentarium of maxillofacial fracture management has been the introduction of rigid internal fixation (RIF). The biomaterials used in RIF have seen a gradual change from Stainless steel to titanium due to the evidence based advantages of the latter. However, the inherent problems with metallic implants led to the introduction of resorbable polymers in RIF. Materials and Method: This article evaluates the efficacy of these polymers in fixation of bone segments as compared to titanium fixation implants in 40 patients of zygomatic complex fractures. The study compared the clinical efficacy, technique, cost and time factors in the use of these two biomaterials. Results: The results showed very little difference after the use of these two biomaterials in spite of the increased time, technique sensitivity and cost of the resorbable system. Conclusion: The argument for use of the resorbable fixation implants as a better alternative to titanium in maxillofacial fracture management seems overstated considering the insignificant differences in the results obtained but significant differences in the time taken and economics of the two biomaterials. The resorbabale system should ideally be restricted for use in pediatric craniofacial surgery.