Resorbable bone fixation: its potential role in cranio-maxillofacial trauma.

The concept of biodegradable bone fixation devices, which provide sufficient rigidity to allow fracture healing and resorption thereafter, has significant appeal in cranio-maxillofacial trauma treatment; however, biodegradable bone fixation devices have not yet become available for clinical use in the craniofacial skeleton. This article reviews the obstacles in developing a resorbable polymer bone fixation system and describes the initial use of such a system in the treatment of cranio-maxillofacial trauma patients. It also discusses the potential role of a resorbable polymer bone fixation system in conjunction with the use of metal fixation in the management of facial fracture.