Craniosynostosis is a medical term that refers to a condition in which the sutures of the skull bones close earlier than normal, deviating from the normal development of the skull of babies. Normally, the sutures between the bones of a baby's skull provide the flexibility and expansion needed for growth and brain development. In craniosynostosis, however, one or more of these sutures close prematurely and this can lead to abnormalities in the shape of the skull.
Craniosynostosis can cause marked changes in the shape of the baby's head. This occurs when one or more skull bones fail to follow the normal growth pattern and the shape of the skull deviates. The abnormal shape of the skull can lead to marked changes, especially in the face and eyes.
What are the Types of Craniosynostosis?
There are different types of craniosynostosis and they are classified depending on which skull sutures have closed prematurely. The types of craniosynostosis can be listed as follows:
Sagittal Craniosynostosis: Refers to premature closure of the sagittal suture at the top of the skull. This prevents the longitudinal growth of the skull and can cause the head to take a pointed shape. There may be a prominent bulge at the top of the head.
Metopic Craniosynostosis: There is premature closure of the metopic suture. This leads to an abnormal shape of the baby's forehead. The baby's forehead may look narrower and more conical.
Coronal Craniosynostosis: occurs when the coronal sutures on the sides of the baby's forehead and face close prematurely. This can lead to an abnormal facial structure in which one side of the baby's face is flat and the other side is dislocated.
Lambdoid Craniosynostosis: This is when the lambdoid suture at the back of the skull closes prematurely. This can lead to an abnormal shape at the back of the baby's head. The back of the head may appear crooked or collapsed.
What Causes Craniosynostosis?
The exact causes of craniosynostosis are not fully understood, but experts have examined some possible factors that contribute to the development of this condition. The factors found among the causes of craniosynostosis are as follows:
- Genetic factors,
- Structural abnormalities,
- Environmental factors,
- Some genetic syndromes,
- Prematurity (premature birth).
What are the symptoms of craniosynostosis?
Thesymptoms of craniosynostosis interfere with the normal development of the skull, leading to marked changes in the shape of the head. Symptoms may vary depending on the type and severity of craniosynostosis. Common symptoms of craniosynostosis include
- Changes in the shape of the head,
- A prominent trapezoid or protrusion between the eyes,
- Facial anomalies,
- Insufficient growth around the head,
- Vision and breathing problems.
How is craniosynostosis treated?
Treatment of craniosynostosis can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Treatment is usually aimed at relieving the symptoms of craniosynostosis, promoting normal growth of the skull and preventing possible complications.
Cases of craniosynostosis can be mild or more severe. In mild cases of craniosynostosis, no treatment may be required. However, if the shape of the skull is significantly distorted, doctors recommend reshaping the baby's skull using specially designed orthotic helmets. These special helmets can help to encourage and correct the correct development of the skull in mild cases of craniosynostosis.
In most cases, however, treatment of craniosynostosis involves surgical intervention. The type and timing of surgical intervention is determined depending on the type and severity of craniosynostosis, as well as the presence of genetic syndromes. In some cases, more than one surgical intervention may be needed to correct the deformity of the baby's head and promote brain development.
Craniosynostosis is an important condition for the health of babies and treatment usually begins at an early age. Doctors create a customized treatment plan for each case and work closely with families. Throughout the treatment process, it is important to pay attention to the recommendations of the specialists and maintain regular medical check-ups.
Craniosynostosis Surgery
Craniosynostosis surgery is a surgical intervention to correct premature closure of the skull bones in babies and to promote normal growth of the skull. This surgery may differ depending on the type and severity of craniosynostosis and the patient's condition. General information about craniosynostosis surgery:
Types of Surgery:
- Endoscopic Surgery: This is a minimal surgical approach. It is usually preferred in early diagnosed and mild cases. In this method, small incisions are made and sutures are opened, which are closed using endoscopic instruments. Postoperative recovery may be faster.
- Traditional Surgery: This method may require a larger surgical intervention. A larger incision may be made to open the closed stitches and reshape the skull. This method may be preferred in more complex or serious cases.
Purposes of the surgery:
- To open the closed stitches: During surgery, the closing sutures are opened to encourage the skull to grow correctly.
- Reshaping the skull: After the closing stitches are opened, the skull bones can be reshaped.
- Promoting normal growth of the head: The aim of the surgery is to correct the head deformity by promoting normal growth of the head.
Postoperative Care:
After craniosynostosis surgery, babies are usually hospitalized for several days. It is normal for the baby's head to swell in the postoperative period. This swelling decreases over time. The recovery process may vary depending on the complexity of the surgery and the baby's general health.
In the postoperative period, specially designed orthotic helmets can be used to correct the shape of the baby's head and accelerate healing. These helmets can encourage the skull to grow in the desired shape.