[Feasibility of a novel material for the reconstruction of skull base in a canine].

Objective: To explore the therapeutic efficacy of a novel complex material of shape-memory alloy brace and artificial dura (nitinol brace and NormalGEN) for the reconstruction of skull base in a canine model with lateral media skull base defect.

Methods: The complex of nitinol brace and NormalGEN was developed with corresponding apparatus. A common adult dog model with lateral media skull base defect was established and then reconstructed with the complex. At Month 3 post-operation, cranial lateral radiographic projection, three-dimensional reconstruction of computer tomography, 1.5T magnetic resonance imaging and histopathological examination were detected.

Results: Five animal models and cranial reconstructions were made. All survived without any complication, such as leakage of cerebrospinal fluid, local tissue eminence and neurological function defect. The imaging detection showed that nitinol brace was distinct and satisfactorily positioned without shift and artifact. And histopathological examination showed that granulation tissue substituted NormalGEN and grew around the brace with numerous fibroblasts.

Conclusion: The complex of shape-memory alloy brace and artificial is suitable for the reconstruction of skull base on dog model with lateral media skull base defect.