Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 19, 2026

Midface Hypoplasia and Cranial Base Morphology in Syndromic Craniosynostosis: A Comparative Analysis Study Using a Predictive Regression Model
08:03

Midface Hypoplasia and Cranial Base Morphology in Syndromic Craniosynostosis: A Comparative Analysis Study Using a Predictive Regression Model

Published on: November 4, 2025

Metopic synostosis

Jacques van der Meulen1

  • 1Dutch Craniofacial Unit, Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Sophia Children's Hospital, Erasmus Medical Center, Dr Molewaterplein 60, 3015GJ, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. j.vandermeulen@erasmusmc.nl

Child'S Nervous System : Chns : Official Journal of the International Society for Pediatric Neurosurgery
|August 9, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Metopic synostosis, a skull malformation, is increasingly common and treated with cranioplasty. This condition is associated with higher rates of neurodevelopmental delays, prompting further research into its causes and outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurosurgery
  • Developmental Biology
  • Craniofacial Surgery

Background:

  • Metopic synostosis, characterized by premature closure of the metopic suture, causes trigonocephaly and frontal bone growth restriction.
  • It is the second most frequent type of craniosynostosis, with a rising incidence in recent decades.
  • Current treatment involves cranioplasty, typically before one year of age.

Observation:

  • Metopic synostosis is correlated with an increased incidence of neurodevelopmental delays.
  • Potential causes for these delays include reduced anterior cranial fossa volume or intrinsic brain malformations.

Findings:

  • This paper provides a comprehensive update on metopic synostosis.
  • Key areas covered include epidemiology, etiology, treatment evolution, follow-up strategies, and neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Implications:

  • Understanding the rising incidence and neurodevelopmental links is crucial for early diagnosis and intervention.
  • Further research into the etiology of neurodevelopmental delays associated with metopic synostosis is warranted.
  • Optimizing cranioplasty timing and neurodevelopmental follow-up can improve patient outcomes.

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