Ossification of autologous pericranium used in duraplasty. Case report

J Neurosurg. 2001 Aug;95(2):350-2. doi: 10.3171/jns.2001.95.2.0350.

Abstract

Pericranium is frequently used in duraplasty and is considered superior to the many other alternatives because of its easy availability and because it offers a watertight dural closure while minimizing the problems of adhesion, infection, and rejection. Although the osteogenic potential of all periosteal tissues is recognized, a review of the literature did not reveal a reported case of osseous formation following use of pericranium for duraplasty. The authors report the case of a 17-year-old man who presented with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. He was obtunded, but moving all extremities purposefully. Computerized tomography scanning demonstrated bifrontal injury. A bicoronal craniotomy with debridement was performed on an emergency basis, with vascularized pericranium used for a duraplasty. Follow-up cranioplasty demonstrated significant ossification of the pericranium 5 months after the original surgery. Pericranium is an attractive material for duraplasty; however, its osteogenic potential may interfere with future cranioplasty and cosmesis. This may be especially relevant in young persons.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Dura Mater / diagnostic imaging
  • Dura Mater / physiopathology
  • Dura Mater / surgery*
  • Head Injuries, Penetrating / diagnostic imaging*
  • Head Injuries, Penetrating / etiology
  • Head Injuries, Penetrating / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Osteogenesis / physiology*
  • Radiography
  • Skull / diagnostic imaging
  • Skull / physiopathology
  • Skull / transplantation*
  • Transplantation, Autologous
  • Wounds, Gunshot / complications
  • Wounds, Gunshot / diagnostic imaging*
  • Wounds, Gunshot / surgery*