What Is Craniosynostosis?

What Is Craniosynostosis?

Craniosynostosis is a condition where the skull bones fuse too early. Here is a comprehensive overview.

Craniosynostosis is a condition in which one or more of the fibrous joints (sutures) between the bones of a baby's skull close prematurely. This affects skull growth and can increase pressure on the brain.

Types of craniosynostosis:

• Sagittal synostosis (most common):
• The skull is long and narrow (scaphocephaly)
• The forehead and back of the head are prominent
• More common in males

• Coronal synostosis:
• Unilateral: the forehead is flat on one side
• Bilateral: a short, wide head (brachycephaly)
• May be associated with syndromes

• Metopic synostosis:
• The forehead has a triangular shape (trigonocephaly)
• A ridge runs down the center of the forehead
• The eyes may be close together

• Lambdoid synostosis (rare):
• Flattening on one side of the back of the head
• The ear may be displaced

• Why it matters:
• Prevents normal skull growth
• Can restrict brain growth
• Causes abnormal head shape
• May increase intracranial pressure
• Can affect vision and development

• Treatment:
• Surgery is the only treatment
• Two approaches: 1. Endoscopic surgery (minimally invasive, <3 months old) followed by helmet therapy 2. Cranial vault remodeling (open surgery, 6–12 months old)

Clinical Guidance

Craniosynostosis is early fusion of skull sutures that affects head shape and can restrict brain growth. It requires surgical correction in infancy, either with endoscopic or open techniques. Outcomes are excellent with early treatment.