Applications of bioactive fiber-reinforced composites in cranial surgery

Objectives: Development of dental and medical biomaterials has moved toward non-metallic materials due to increased cosmetic needs, expanded understanding of potential biological effects of released metal nanoparticles and ions, requirements of modern medical imaging systems, and need to fabricate patient-specific implants.
Methods: Non-metallic materials of ceramics and particulate filler resin composites are isotropic materials and some time ago first clinically applicable anisotropic dental materials, namely fiber-reinforced composites (FRC) have become to the clinical use. Present applications of FRC can be found in all disciplines of clinical dentistry and also in bone reconstructive surgery. Both continuous and discontinuous (short) fibers are utilized in clinical dentistry and medicine nowadays. Properties of FRC in relation to the direction of fibers include all physical and optical but also bonding properties. Successful use of FRC in clinical dentistry and cranial surgery requires comprehensive understanding of the mechanism of action of components of FRCs and the loading conditions where the device will be used. Also factors influencing bioactivity, osteoconductivity and osteinductivity are crucial for bone replacing implants.
Results: In cranial surgery, where there are commonly occurring periprosthetic infections, antimicrobial properties of the implant are preferred. Criteria for selecting an optimal material for cranial implant are based of knowledge of biostable and durable FRCs and bioceramics and bioactive glasses.
Conclusions: The presentation will show the present status of utilizing glass FRC-bioactive glass implants in cranial surgery.