Craniosynostosis
Craniosynostosis is a birth defect in which one or more of the cranial sutures, or the joints between the bones of the skull, closes before the brain has completed growing. Other areas of the skull continue to grow, forming an abnormal skull shape. If only one of the cranial sutures closes too early, the brain develops normally, but the skull will have an abnormal shape. If too many sutures close, the brain may not properly develop. Surgery may be performed to relieve pressure on the brain and cranial nerves, as well as give the head an improved symmetry and appearance.
Symptoms of Craniosynostosis
Symptoms of craniosynostosis can vary and get worse or more intense over time and may include:
- Abnormally shaped skull
- Pressure on the skull
- Developmental delays
- Mental retardation
- Seizures and blindness in severe cases
Causes of Craniosynostosis
The exact cause of craniosynostosis is unknown, but some researchers believe it may be genetic. It is also believed that it may be caused by metabolic diseases such as an overactive thyroid or rickets. Other research indicates that craniosynostosis may be more prevalent in:
- Babies who are twins
- Babies that were in a breech position in the uterus
- Babies born to mothers who smoked during pregnancy
Diagnosis of Craniosynostosis
Craniosynostosis may be suspected if a child has an odd shaped head, however infant's heads may be misshapen at birth due to delivery, how they were positioned in the uterus or even caused by sleep patterns. Additional tests to diagnose craniosynostosis may include:
- Measurement of the head
- X-Ray
- CT scan
- MRI
- Genetic testing
Treatment of Craniosynostosis
In some cases, treatment may not be necessary for craniosynostosis, especially those cases that are mild and involve only the premature closing of only one cranial suture. Mild cases of craniosynostosis commonly become less obvious as children grow and hair begins to cover the skull. In some cases, a doctor may recommend a cranial helmet to help reshape the head.
In more severe cases of craniosynostosis, especially those causing pressure on the brain and the possibility of developmental delays, surgery is usually necessary. Surgery is recommended when the child is still young, so the pressure on the brain can be relieved and space can be created for the brain to grow and function normally. The surgeon makes an incision on the scalp and reshapes the affected part of the skull, commonly using absorbable plates and screws to hold bones in place. Endoscopic surgery may also be performed to open the closed sutures and allow the brain to grow normally.
After surgery, children will be monitored by their doctor and the growth of their head will be watched closely. Children with any underlying genetic syndromes will also be monitored and treated for their individual condition.