Porous polyethylene in reconstructive head and neck surgery.

Porous polyethylene is a thermoplastic synthetic with a pore size ranging from about 100 micron to 200 micron. In addition to other materials, it is used for alloplastic replacement of auditory ossicles. Experimental and clinical experience in our department in recent years has shown that porous polyethylene, due to its good formability, tissue tolerance, and stability is suitable for use in reconstruction of other cartilaginous and bony structures. Therefore, it has been used successfully in reconstruction of the outer ear, in repairing defects of the facial skull, and in rebasing paralyzed vocal folds. Its use in the inner nose to replace the cartilaginous septum or rebase the mucosa in ozena, however, cannot be recommended. The suitability of the material for alloplastic tracheal replacement is investigated experimentally.