Vacuum-stiffened beanbag for cranial remodeling procedures in modified prone position. Technical note

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Pediatric Surgery
• Craniofacial Surgery

Background:

• Surgical correction of multiple-suture synostosis requires optimal patient positioning for comprehensive cranial access.
• The modified prone position offers improved surgical visualization from the supraorbital ridge to the occipital bone.
• Existing head-frames for the modified prone position are often unsatisfactory for pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a novel, economical positioning device for pediatric patients undergoing cranial remodeling in the modified prone position.
• To demonstrate the safety and efficacy of a bead-filled vinyl bag for head stabilization during craniofacial surgery.

Main Methods:

• A vinyl bag filled with styrofoam beads was utilized to secure the head of young children in the modified prone position.
• The device was employed during surgical correction of multiple-suture synostosis, enabling access to the entire calvarium.

Main Results:

• The bead-filled bag provided a safe and reliable method for head positioning in pediatric patients.
• This positioning facilitated one-stage cranial remodeling procedures under direct vision, enhancing surgical outcomes.

Conclusions:

• A simple, inexpensive bead-filled vinyl bag is an effective alternative to traditional head-frames for the modified prone position in pediatric craniofacial surgery.
• This technique improves surgical access and contributes to better results in the treatment of multiple-suture synostosis.