Unique and innovative material for better cranioplasty results

Cranioplasty is the surgical intervention to repair cranial defects. Reconstructions with the patient’s own bone flap are preferred because of its cosmetic results, lower cost, and bio integration.

Synthetic materials are considered as an alternative to prevent complications incurred by autologous bone grafts, such as infection and bone resorption. Many different types of synthetic materials are used, because there is no consensus concerning implant materials and treatment strategies.

Innovative 3D printed material

The Craniosafe project aims to develop an innovative, reliable and cost-effective substitute material that is produced by 3D printing to exactly fit the patient’s defect, based on the patient’s CT-scan. Additionally, an evidence-based treatment guide will be established that will help surgeons to make better treatment decisions for this challenging problem. The research group is a unique collaboration between material scientists at ACTA and MKA surgeons at the AMC, both teams with complementary expertise to carry novel biomaterials from bench- to bedside. In addition, several users (NextDent, Xilloc, Micreos, Braedius, MKA Midden Brabant, Dutch Brain Council) support this project and provide relevant technologies and commercial expertise.

The Craniosafe project was awarded with an STW Open Technologie grant. Catalyze was responsible for writing the grant proposal. Would you like to know what we can do for you? Check the Catalyze Services page!