Calvarial and sutural re-development following craniectomy in the neonatal rabbit.

In the present investigation extensive calvariectomy was performed on neonatal rabbits and the subsequent regeneration of the calvarium was followed grossly, radiographically and histologically. The results indicate that regeneration of the calvarium is a gradual process which exhibits a definite pattern and rate. Furthermore, although the sutural articulations re-develop in their proper anatomical positions and exhibit normal histological structure, they tend to synostose earlier than controls. Of perhaps greater biological significance is the apparent importance of the periosteal envelope during the regenerative process. Maintenance of dural integrity during operation, and the re-establishment of pericranial continuity post-operatively, seem to be essential for restoration of normal sutural and skeletal architecture.