Craniosynostosis (premature closure of one or more of the cranial vault sutures) occurs during development of the fetus and affects 1 in every 2,000 infants (Fig. 5, 6, 7, 8). These congenital deformities may affect any of the cranial vault sutures (coronal, metopic, sagittal, and lambdoid) in one or more locations.

An early and comprehensive evaluation should include consultation with (at a minimum) a craniofacial surgeon, pediatric neurosurgeon, pediatric ophthalmologist, medical geneticist and pediatrician. Audiology testing and a complete craniofacial computed tomographic (CT) scan should be obtained.

Reconstruction carried out by an experienced craniofacial surgeon and pediatric neurosurgeon working together is essential to achieve sufficient brain decompression, to normalize the appearance, minimize morbidity (complications) and decrease the need for secondary procedures.

Ongoing interval reassessment by experienced specialists is essential to monitor function and to evaluate the facial growth and appearance of each patient.

Example (figure 5)

Example (figure 6)

Example (figure 7)

Example (figure 8)