Alloplastic implantation.

After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Define an alloplastic material and know the differences between an alloplast and other types of implants available for surgical use. 2. Determine the biologic response to alloplastic implantation and the material and host characteristics that contribute to long-term reconstruction success with their use. 3. Review the criteria for choosing a specific alloplastic material for a reconstruction site and the principles of surgical technique for its proper placement. 4. Evaluate the various alloplastic material types that are currently available for surgical use and be able to discuss several physical properties of each as they relate to handling and clinical implantation. 5. Discuss the complication of alloplastic infection, its pathogenesis, preoperative and intraoperative measures for its avoidance, and the postoperative management of its occurrence.