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The effect of tissue expansion on skull bones in the paediatric age group from 2 to 7 years

M M El-Saadi1, M A Nasr

  • 1Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Sharkia, Egypt. mostafaelsaadi@hotmail.com

Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery : JPRAS
|September 11, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Scalp tissue expansion in young children (2-7 years) may cause skull deformation and suture line changes. CT imaging revealed bony alterations after expansion, requiring careful monitoring in pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Plastic Surgery
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Craniofacial Surgery

Background:

  • Tissue expansion is a common technique for reconstructing scalp defects in both adults and children.
  • A significant concern with pediatric scalp expansion is the potential for skull deformation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effects of scalp tissue expansion on the developing skull in children aged 2 to 7 years.
  • To assess bony changes and suture line alterations following tissue expansion in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • The study involved the application of 40 tissue expanders in 32 pediatric patients (ages 2-7 years) across various scalp areas.
  • Computed tomography (CT) imaging was utilized to assess the skull before expansion, immediately after expansion, and three months post-expander removal.

Main Results:

  • Post-expansion CT scans revealed multiple bony changes in the pediatric skulls.
  • Alterations were also observed at the cranial suture lines, indicating an impact on skull development.

Conclusions:

  • Scalp tissue expansion in young children can lead to notable bony changes and affect cranial suture lines.
  • Close monitoring and further research are warranted to understand the long-term implications of these changes in pediatric skull development.

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