CRANIOSYNOSTOSIS

A child's brain undergoes rapid growth in the first year of life. To allow for this rapid expansion, the skull is made up of a number of bones rather than a single bone. They are separated by structures called sutures (expansion joints) that allow the brain to grow without being restricted. Craniosynostosis occurs when the sutures either fuse or are unable to expand.

Craniosynostosis not only affects the shape of the skull but the appearance of the face. Depending on which sutures fail to expand, the head can be long and narrow or short and wide. In some cases, one eye may appear larger than the other. If the brain cannot expand properly, it can cause increased pressure which can affect mental development.

Since the recommendation that infants sleep on their backs to prevent "SIDS" (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), we have seen an increase in skull deformity related to this positioning. This is not caused by bony fusion and can usually be treated without surgery, often with molding head bands. True craniosynostosis (bony fusion) requires surgical correction by a craniofacial team. If you suspect that your child may have one of these conditions, contact a qualified specialist to correctly diagnose and treat his or her problem.

If you have additional questions, or wish more information regarding these or other anomalies, please contact us at info@hopeforkids.com.

BEFORE AND AFTER PICTURES

View some animated "before and after" shots below. To see the "after" shot position your cursor over the image and the "after" shot will automatically come into view (there is no need to click).

craniosynostosis, craniosynostosis surgery, SIDS, sudden infant death syndrome

cleft lip and cleft palate
craniosynostosis(abnormal head shape)
orthognathics (jaw deformities)
microtia (partial or total absence of an ear)
hemangiomas (vascular tumors)
hairy nevus
birth marks, burns and hand deformities.

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