Management of Craniosynostosis

Many procedures exist for treatment of craniosynostosis. The goal of all surgical interventions is to correct the skull deformities associated with the synostosis and to prevent the sequela of elevated intracranial pressure. Open cranial vault reconstructions address these issues at the time of surgery, but have the potential for increased blood loss and longer hospital stays. Minimally invasive procedures have shorter operative times and decreased blood loss, but rely on the cranial abnormality to improve over time with helmets or distraction devices. Prolonged follow-up is necessary to monitor long-term cosmetic outcomes and evaluate for signs of increasing intracranial pressure.