Reconstruction of a large complex skull defect in a child: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Major skull defects, especially in the anterior region, can present as a most disturbing deformity. Reconstructive cranioplasty can restore cerebral protection and improve craniofacial aesthetics. Complex and large skull defects in children often present reconstructive difficulties. In this paper, an unusual case of a very large post-traumatic defect (318 cm(2)) in a child managed by a multidisciplinary team is described. The literature is reviewed. The management of a large complex skull defect in children is still controversial. Each case should be extensively debated in craniofacial units. In our case, bioceramics proved to be an effective and good alternative for final skull reconstruction.