BoneSource for craniomaxillofacial reconstruction.

Hydroxyapatite cement (HAC) is a calcium phosphate cement whose properties overcome the inherent limitations of previous forms of hydroxyapatite. HAC (BoneSource, Leibinger Corp., Dallas, TX) is prepared as a powder that forms an easily applicable paste which hardens in six to 20 minutes. HAC exhibits excellent biocompatibility, is easily contoured in situ, is highly stable, and allows osteoconduction. The use of calcium phosphate cements (CPC) for reconstruction of craniofacial defects has intrinsic appeal owing to the chemical and physical properties of hydroxyapatite. Difficulty in contouring CPC implants, their lack of compressive strength, and their failure to allow osteoinduction were significant limitations in the use of earlier forms of hydroxyapatite for skeletal reconstruction. HAC offers an excellent reconstructive option for repair of various craniofacial defects.