Adaptation of rigid fixation to cranial flap replacement.

The use of titanium craniofacial plates and the principles of rigid fixation have been adapted to cranial flap replacement. The technique has been in use for more than 18 months with no complications related to the technique or implant. The advantages of using titanium screws and plates to achieve superior healing and cosmesis, as well as the reduction of postoperative artifacts on magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomographic scans, are of benefit to neurosurgical patients.