[Current considerations in the management of positional plagiocephaly]

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Craniofacial Anomalies

Background:

• The widespread adoption of the supine sleeping position for infants to prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) has led to a notable increase in the prevalence of positional plagiocephaly (PP).
• Significant debate exists regarding the long-term consequences of PP and the threshold of severity at which these consequences manifest.
• Current therapeutic interventions for PP, including positioning techniques, kinesiology, and cranial orthoses, lack a consensus on their efficacy.

Approach:

• This review systematically analyzes existing literature to provide an updated understanding of the causes, key characteristics, and evidence-based treatment strategies for positional plagiocephaly.
• Emphasis is placed on the critical importance of early intervention, beginning in the newborn period.
• The approach includes educating parents on prevention and management, alongside early screening for PP and associated conditions like congenital muscular torticollis to facilitate prompt treatment.

Key Points:

• Increased prevalence of positional plagiocephaly (PP) linked to SIDS prevention strategies.
• Controversies surround PP's long-term effects and the effectiveness of various treatments.
• Early screening, particularly for congenital muscular torticollis, is vital for timely intervention.

Conclusions:

• Early intervention, encompassing education and screening from the newborn period, is essential for managing positional plagiocephaly.
• Positional plagiocephaly may serve as an indicator for potential psychomotor development issues.
• Further research is needed to establish consensus on the efficacy of different PP therapies.