Perspectives of patients about bioabsorbable internal fixation for maxillofacial fractures

PURPOSE: Resorbable/bioabsorbable internal fixation provides effective treatment for maxillofacial fractures and avoids the need for metal hardware removal. We evaluated the initial knowledge, attitudes, subjective demand, and treatment satisfaction of patients concerning bioabsorbable osteofixation for maxillofacial trauma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From May 2007 to October 2009, there were 71 patients (63 males and 8 females; mean age: 35 ± 15 years) included in this prospective study. The patients completed preoperative and postoperative (4–6 weeks and 1 year) questionnaires. RESULTS: After receiving information, 70 patients (99%) preferred resorbable/bioabsorbable bone fixation, usually because they preferred to avoid a second operation to remove metal hardware (67 patients [94%]). The higher cost of resorbable/bioabsorbable bone fixation was believed and justified by 41 patients (58%) and not justified by 30 patients (42%). No adverse events were reported by 27 of 34 patients (79%) at 4–6 weeks and by 14 of 21 patients (67%) at 1 year after surgery. Most patients were very satisfied with the outcome of surgery. CONCLUSION: Patients who have maxillofacial trauma have a high frequency of preference and high satisfaction with resorbable/bioabsorbable than metal osteofixation. Literature review showed increased activity in research and publication worldwide about resorbable bone fixation, suggesting that there may be increased patient demand for resorbable bone fixation in the future.