[Conventional Cranioplasty for Craniosynostosis]

Conventional cranioplasty is a basic operative procedure for craniosynostosis. This procedure is more invasive, but can be completed in shorter treatment period than distraction osteogenesis. This surgery can allow delicate cranial reshaping, and is indicated in most age groups. The operative procedures may differ depending on the skull shape. During this procedure, complete brain release from the skull compression must be achieved. In most patients, bone flaps float from the dura mater after completion of craniotomy. The bone flap must be reshaped to the ideal form, and should be fixed with absorbable plates instead of titanium plates to avoid plate migration. To close the scalp, the galea should be sutured tight to avoid wound trouble. After the operation, patients should be followed up at an out-patient clinic; the skull and face shape should be checked by a neurosurgeon and plastic surgeon as the treated skull has risk of backslide, and development should be regularly checked by a pediatrician.