A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

The current state of cranioplasty in Europe : Results from a European cranioplasty survey




AuthorsNaser, Paul Vincent; Tsitsopoulos, Parmenion; Zacharias, Friederike; Castaño-Leon, Ana M.; Buki, Andras; Depreitere, Bart; Van Essen, Thomas; Korhonen, Tommi K.; Mee, Harry; Hossain, Iftakher; Posti, Jussi; Lippa, Laura; Papadopoulos, Marios C.; Terpolilli, Nicole; Marklund, Niklas; Petr, Ondra; Toth, Peter; Luoto, Teemu; Krieg, Sandro M.; Unterberg, Andreas W.

PublisherElsevier

Publication year2025

JournalBrain and Spine

Journal name in sourceBrain and Spine

Volume5

eISSN2772-5294

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.bas.2025.104214(external)

Web address https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bas.2025.104214(external)

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/491678289(external)


Abstract

Introduction
Cranioplasty, a surgical procedure to restore skull integrity and aesthetic contour following decompressive craniectomy, poses challenges in material selection and timing, driven by the lack of guidelines and ongoing regulatory changes.

Research question
This study aimed to provide an overview of current cranioplasty practices in Europe, explicitly addressing a potential shift towards alloplastic materials and the management of patients with concomitant hydrocephalus.

Material and methods
An online survey was conducted among European neurosurgical centers from January to March 2024, collecting data on material preferences, timing of procedures, and management strategies for cranioplasty. Descriptive and statistical analyses were performed on 110 complete responses.

Results
Respondents favored alloplastic materials over autologous bone for cranioplasty, citing regulatory constraints and reduced infection risk as primary reasons. Variability was observed in the timing of procedures and the management of patients with hydrocephalus, with most centers adopting staged approaches.
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Discussion and conclusion
The shift towards alloplastic materials in cranioplasty reflects regulatory pressures rather than material-specific considerations. Despite variability in practice, our findings underscore the need for standardized guidelines and further research to optimize patient outcomes. This study provides valuable insights into current practices and highlights areas for future investigation in cranioplasty.


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Funding information in the publication
This publication was supported through state funds approved by the State Parliament of Baden-Württemberg for the Innovation Campus Health + Life Science Alliance Heidelberg Mannheim issued to P.V.N


Last updated on 2025-05-05 at 12:28