Zenker's solution in the surgical treatment of craniosynostosis.

Abstract

✓ Tissue fixative (Zenker's solution) was applied to the outer layer of the cranial dura mater in 34 patients to delay regrowth of bone after craniectomy for craniosynostosis, and the results evaluated. Seizures, heretofore unrecorded as a complication, were noted postoperatively in two of 12 patients in whom the Zenker's solution was mixed with acetic acid. A time limit of 3 min for application of the solution to the dura mater and omission of acetic acid appeared to prevent permanent seizures in subsequent patients. Reoperation to maintain opened sutures has been necessary when the fixative was applied only to the bone edges and adjacent dura, indicating that the entire exposed dural surface must be covered. Cranioplasty to close large defects often became necessary at a later age when the solution containing acetic acid was applied longer than 3 min. With the modifications noted, the authors feel the technique is safe for use in cosmetic procedures.