Poly (L-lactide) Osteosynthesis - development of bioresorbable bone plates and screws -

Internal fixation with metallic plates and screws is generally accepted as a reliable method for the fixation of maxillofacial fractures to achieve good bone healing. The most frequently applied plate systems consist of different types of dynamic compression plates and miniplates. Rigid fixation of fractures with compression allows the patient to exercise or even load the fractured bone. A major disadvantage, however, is that these metal devices have to be removed after fracture healing. The most important reason is bone resorption under the plate as a result of stress shielding. Inflammatory reactions due to loosening of the plate or to corrosion may occur. Metallic implants also cause backward scattering in patients who have to be irradiated because of a malignant tumor. ... Zie: Summary.