Which is the best way to treat craniosynostosis?

Which is the best way to treat craniosynostosis?

Treating craniosynostosis usually involves surgery to unlock and bones and reshape the skull. Historically, craniosynostosis has been treated using surgical methods that involve an incision from ear to ear and the removal, reshaping, and reattachment of affected bones. Sometimes this is still the best option.

How does craniosynostosis change the shape of the head?

In some case the cause appears to be genetic. Craniosynostosis causes a change in the normal shape of the head. If a suture − the seam between two skull bones − is fused, it cannot grow, and the bones with open sutures then grow more than usual to allow enough room for brain growth.

What happens if craniosynostosis is left untreated?

Sometimes, early suture closure can also restrict overall skull growth which may be harmful to the brain inside which is trying to grow. Left untreated, craniosynostosis can result in further cranial deformity and potentially an overall restriction in head growth, with secondary increased intracranial pressure.

How is virtual surgery used to treat craniosynostosis?

Surgical planning. Imaging studies can help surgeons develop a surgical procedure plan. Virtual surgical planning for treatment of craniosynostosis uses high-definition 3-D CT scans of your baby’s skull to construct a computer-simulated, individualized surgical plan.

Treating craniosynostosis usually involves surgery to unlock and bones and reshape the skull. Historically, craniosynostosis has been treated using surgical methods that involve an incision from ear to ear and the removal, reshaping, and reattachment of affected bones. Sometimes this is still the best option.

Surgical planning. Imaging studies can help surgeons develop a surgical procedure plan. Virtual surgical planning for treatment of craniosynostosis uses high-definition 3-D CT scans of your baby’s skull to construct a computer-simulated, individualized surgical plan.

Can a molded helmet help a baby with craniosynostosis?

In this situation, the molded helmet can assist your baby’s brain growth and correct the shape of the skull. However, for most babies, surgery is the primary treatment. The type and timing of surgery depends on the type of craniosynostosis and whether there’s an underlying genetic syndrome.

What happens to your child After craniosynostosis surgery?

After Craniosynostosis Surgery Following craniosynostosis surgery, your child will likely have a turbanlike dressing around his or her head, and may experience swelling in the face and eyelids. Your child will spend the period after surgery in an intensive care unit for close monitoring.