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RACS ASC 2024

History of Craniofacial Surgery: Pioneering Surgeons and Milestones

Verbal Presentation

Verbal Presentation

2:00 pm

07 May 2024

Dobson 2

RESEARCH PAPERS

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Presentation Description

Institution: Sydney Children’s Hospital - NSW, Australia

The beginnings Craniofacial surgery has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from ancient practices such as trephination and head binding into a highly specialised and innovative field. The roots of craniofacial surgery date back to 10000 BC, marked by the emergence of trephination to alleviate intracranial pressure (1). The 19th century witnessed breakthroughs in general anaesthesia and antibiotics, reshaping the field and enabling the treatment of craniofacial injuries, particularly among World War I soldiers. The evolution The evolution of craniofacial surgery continued with historical milestones, including Van Meekeren's bone graft attempt in 1682 and the complexity of facial injuries during World War II (1). Kazanjian and Converse's 1949 publication coincided with Sir Harold Gillies' pioneering of the Le Fort III procedure and advancements in cranioplasty materials (1). Obwegeser's 1969 work on midface advancement laid the groundwork for modern craniofacial care, while Verdi's 1991 report introduced dental implants as a game-changer for managing craniofacial anomalies (1). Modern day craniofacial surgery However, the true luminary was Paul Tessier, whose 1967 Rome presentation unveiled revolutionary techniques for patients with craniofacial dysostosis and major facial clefts, expanding the horizons of the field (1). Conclusion The history of craniofacial surgery reflects the dedication of pioneers like Tessier, elevating the field into a sophisticated realm and improving the quality of life for patients with craniofacial disorders. References: Goodrich J. An annotated history of craniofacial surgery and intentional cranial deformation. Neurosurg Clin N Am. 2001; 12(1):45-68.

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Authors

Dr Jeremy Bishay - , Dr Constant Van Schalkwyk - , Dr Michael Rtshiladze -