A retrospective study of 66 titanium cranioplasties.

A review was undertaken to assess the outcome of treatment in 66 patients for whom a titanium prosthesis was provided for the repair of a calvarium defect. While many aspects were satisfactory, certain disappointing features led to a prospective pilot study which enabled the following problems to be identified: (a) poor communication between neurosurgeon and prosthetist; (b) difficulties in establishing the margins of the defect; (c) orientation of the prosthesis, and (d) marginal retention. All were overcome with an agreed protocol.