Workflow and Principles for Precisely Designing a Custom-Made Polyetheretherketone Implant Applied in Irregular Craniofacial Bone Defects

Abstract

Irregular craniofacial bone defects caused by craniofacial fractures always result in craniofacial bone and contour asymmetry and should therefore be reconstructed. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is an ideal substitute for autologous bone grafts and has been widely used in craniofacial bone defect reconstruction. The precise design of custom-made PEEK implants is particularly important to optimise reconstruction. Herein, the workflow and principles for the design and manufacture of PEEK implants are summarised, and a protocol for the precise design of an irregular craniofacial bone defect PEEK implant is presented. According to the method and principles, the design flow was efficient and could be standardised, and design errors could be avoided as much as possible.