Innovative Approaches in Craniofacial Defect Reconstruction: Bridging Clinical and Basic Science

Craniofacial defects encompass a range of deformities affecting the skull, facial bones, and soft tissues, often resulting from trauma, genetic diseases, or abnormal embryonic development. These defects can have severe implications, including intellectual disability and visual impairment, necessitating functional reconstruction for optimal patient outcomes. Despite extensive research in both clinical and basic sciences, the development of novel and effective strategies for craniofacial defect reconstruction remains an ongoing challenge. Recent studies have made significant strides in understanding the genetic and molecular underpinnings of these defects, as well as in developing advanced surgical techniques and biomedical technologies. However, there remains a critical need for more comprehensive and integrative approaches that can address the multifaceted nature of craniofacial defects and improve long-term outcomes for patients.

This research topic aims to advance the field of craniofacial defect reconstruction by fostering innovative research and clinical practices. We seek to answer key questions regarding the efficacy of current reconstruction strategies, the potential of emerging technologies, and the underlying biological mechanisms that contribute to these defects. By testing new hypotheses and exploring uncharted areas, we hope to uncover novel therapeutic avenues and improve the quality of life for individuals affected by craniofacial defects.

To gather further insights into the complexities of craniofacial defect reconstruction, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Advanced clinical investigations showcasing current functional reconstruction strategies and surgical techniques, and their efficacy in treating craniofacial defects.
- Cell biology and biomedical technology for reconstructing craniofacial defects.
- Immunotherapeutic strategies to manipulate oral inflammation-caused craniofacial defects, such as maxillofacial bone loss, craniofacial muscle fibrosis, and facial skin scars.
- Application of computational technology, artificial intelligence, and additive manufacturing technology in treating craniofacial defects, including those occurring after oral oncology treatment.
- Advancements in basic science research investigating the genetic changes, etiology, and pathogenesis of craniofacial defects to facilitate the exploration of new therapeutic strategies.
- Other related research and reviews that contribute to our understanding of craniofacial defects and their management.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Pedagogy
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Pedagogy
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Policy Brief
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: craniofacial defects, genetic disease, embryonic development, trauma

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.