[Surgery of craniofacial deformities]

Most craniofacial abnormalities are craniosynostoses due to premature fusion of one or more craniofacial sutures. The typical cranial deformities result from growth inhibition perpendicular to the affected sutures. Functional impairment is caused either directly by the pathological growth pattern or indirectly by the increased intracranial pressure. Craniosynostosis is frequently accompanied by dysmorphia or dystopia of the orbits, resulting in possible functional problems. The indications for operation are to increase the intracranial volume and to correct aesthetic impairments. The planning of the surgical procedures has to consider the orbital problems. This review describes the different disease patterns of premature craniosynostosis and specific surgical approaches for their correction.