Growing Skull Fractures; Pathogenesis and Surgical Outcome

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurosurgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Retrospective study of 67 patients with skull fractures.
• Analysis of radiological investigations (X-rays, CT, MRI) and surgical outcomes.
• Focus on natural disease course, anatomical changes, and surgical results.

Purpose of the Study:

• Determine the natural course of growing skull fractures.
• Evaluate anatomical changes post-trauma.
• Assess surgical outcomes including cranial reconstruction, seizures, and neurological deficits.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 67 patient cases.
• Review of serial radiological investigations.
• Evaluation of craniotomy surgical procedures.

Main Results:

• Most injuries occurred before age 3; seizures were the most common symptom (41.80%).
• Growing skull fractures (Type I and II) occurred in 43.28% of cases.
• Dural defects were significantly larger than bone defects; early correction of linear/burst fractures recommended.

Conclusions:

• Early management of skull fractures prevents neurological sequelae and brain shift.
• Surgical correction using autologous materials offers good tissue compatibility and cost-effectiveness.
• Meticulous surgery and postoperative care are vital for reducing morbidity and mortality.