Cranioplasty applications by using a three-dimensional printer in neurosurgery

Objective: Along with the technological developments, three-dimensional printers are being used more frequently in medicine. In this study, we aimed to create patient- specific implant mold using 3D modeling and also to develop the surgical technique in selected cranioplasty cases. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 patients underwent cranioplasty in Dokuz Eylül University Neurosurgery Department were included in the study. The molds printed by the 3D printer were used in six different ways based on the preparation principle and application techniques. Results: Of the 20 patients included in the study, 16 (80%) were male and 4 (20%) were female. The mean age was 38.00 ± 16.27. The mean cranial defect area was 5927,70 ± 2983,12 mm2 . The outcomes of the patients for whom the mold was created using the most recent technique (Group 6), was compared to the rest. Of all the parameters, operation time reached statistical significance. (100.83 ± 2.04 minutes in Group 6, 111.42 ± 15.74 min in others, P=0,043). Conclusion: 3D printer technology can serve as an invaluable tool for the surgeon in cranioplasty procedure. In our study, using this technique resulted in satisfactory cosmetic results with shorter operation time.