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Neurology (Expert Forum)
cranial plates
This forum is for questions and support regarding neurology issues such as: Alzheimer's Disease, ALS, Autism, Brain Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Pain, Epilepsy, Fibromyalgia, Headaches, MS, Neuralgia, Neuropathy, Parkinson's Disease, RSD, Sleep Disorders, Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury
cranial plates
by kyn81272, Jan 13, 2004 12:00AM
My husband had a brain tumor removed on 9-9-99. It was benign and we thought that after recovery he would be fine...not at all the case..1 month after the initial surgery he had severe swelling of the head, we took him to the local ER and they transferred him to the hospital that the surgery was preformed at. They ran test and found nothing..He has a skin condition called dermatagraphia(not sure on the spelling)The nuerosurgeon thought the sweeling was caused from this condition..He has had trouble with swelling off and on until aug 2003, the swelling got really bad and he started having trouble staying awake and vomiting and nausea. We went back to the doctor and they wanted to do surgery to go in and see what they could see. They did the surgery on Aug 27, 2003 and it was MRSA Staph infection underneath the plate. The plate was removed and they had to remove 1/2 inch of bone from osteomyletis..he has been on antibotic for 3 months and now they are wanting to put a plate back in..the hole is 3in x 4 in on the right frontal skull. What are the types of materials that are used for cranial plates and which are more or less irritating? Do you no anything about this skin condition and is the next plate going to cause the same problems with the infection....We don't know what to do and our doctor is not much on talking and explaining details...if you have any suggestions or info please contact me thanks
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-Neuro-M.D.-CS, Jan 14, 2004 12:00AM
There are various options for plates. The typical is titanium mesh which is then covered with an acrylic or ceramic material. There are also fiberglass molds which can be used, but require pre-surgical specialized imaging and ordering of the mold. I am not familar with this dermatologic condition, and could not find specific references to it in the literature with regard to cranial plates. The arteficial plates can cause a local reaction, but in most people this is limited. Another possibility is that your husband had a reaction to the suture material used. This can be tested by seeing an allergist.
With a more formal consultation more definiative information could be provided. Perhaps a second opinion with another neurosurgeon at an academic center would be reasonable. Good luck.
With a more formal consultation more definiative information could be provided. Perhaps a second opinion with another neurosurgeon at an academic center would be reasonable. Good luck.
Member Comments (1)
by Kim600, May 03, 2008 12:05AM
A related discussion, Do fiberglass skull plates break down over time? was started.