Cranioplasty Step by Step: From Craniectomy to Custom Implant

Cranioplasty restores cranial integrity and contour after decompressive craniectomy, trauma or tumour resection — resolving 'syndrome of the trephined' symptoms and normalising CSF dynamics. Patient-specific implants have made the operation faster and more predictable than hand-bent mesh.

Steps 1–2 — Imaging and mirrored design

The process starts with a thin-slice CT (≤1.5 mm, bone kernel) covering the full defect, uploaded through the case form with a short clinical summary. Our engineers segment the skull and reconstruct the ideal contour — mirroring the contralateral hemisphere for unilateral defects — then design a perforated implant whose edges follow the craniectomy margin exactly.

Step 3 — Review and quotation

You receive a 3D PDF and STL preview showing the implant seated on the patient model. Edge margin, tab position, thickness and material are all adjustable here — before manufacturing. The quotation, including lead time, is issued with the design package.

Step 4 — Surgery and after

In theatre the implant seats with its pre-shaped tabs contacting the skull edge exactly as designed — typically six to ten low-profile screws, no intra-operative bending. Most teams report substantially shorter operative times versus manual contouring. Submit the CT on our How It Works page and you'll have the design package and price within days.