Craniosynostosis is a condition in which an infant’s skull sutures fuse prematurely, restricting brain growth and potentially leading to intracranial hypertension and developmental complications. One minimally invasive treatment, spring-assisted cranioplasty (SAC), involves surgically implanting stainless steel springs to gradually reshape the skull. However, these springs require a second surgery for removal, increasing risks and medical costs for patients and families.

Our project aims to develop bioabsorbable cranial springs that eliminate the need for a second procedure while maintaining controlled cranial expansion. By leveraging advanced materials such as magnesium and shape-memory polymers, we seek to create a spring that provides 6–10 N of force and gradually resorbs over time.