Craniosynostosis in children

Craniosynostosis means one or more skull bones have fused early. Unusual development of your baby’s head or alignment of facial features might signal this rare condition. While serious, the right experts can work wonders. And that's just what we have: nationally-recognized pediatric plastic and neurosurgeons who can help.

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Craniosynostosis happens when the joints between the plates of the head close early, which results in a misshapen face or skull. It can cause delays in development or permanent brain damage. This condition often requires surgery in the first year of life, with follow-up as the baby grows. We offer several surgical treatments, including a less invasive “directed growth” technique for younger children. For complex cases, our surgeons use CT images and special software to develop a customized, virtual 3-D plan to achieve the best outcome.

Your child's care begins here

Treatment for craniosynostosis usually involves surgery to separate the fused bones in the skull. The key to treating it is early detection and treatment. Our team includes nationally recognized plastic surgeons, who are experts in advanced surgical treatments for all types of craniosynostosis. For complex cases, our surgeons develop a virtual 3-D model to plan each step as well as precise measurements, sometimes just millimeters, needed to achieve the best outcome.

We're leaders in a new directed growth technique that offer a less invasive option with even better results for skull reconstruction in younger children. We’ll work with you to determine the best path to successful reconstruction for your child.

Treatment options

Skull remodeling surgery
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For certain diagnoses, we may need to reconstruct the skull with a surgery called a craniovault. This more complex surgery puts everything in proper position with plates and screws.

Directed growth technique
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This minimally invasive surgery manipulates the growth plates that are still open. This way, we can use your child's own growth for long term success.

Distraction osteogenesis
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In some cases a device can be placed on the jaw for bone “distraction.” This technique allows the body to grow its own bone and avoids the need for bone grafts.