[Surgery in craniofacial syndromes (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Craniofacial Surgery

Background:

• Craniofacial surgery corrects congenital and acquired deformities of the skull and face.
• It has seen significant development in the past decade, often involving microsurgery.
• Plastic surgery departments coordinate these complex interventions with other medical disciplines.

Observation:

• An interdisciplinary craniofacial surgery group began operations in 1978.
• The article reports initial experiences and presents three cases: Morbus Apert, Morbus Crouzon, and Hypertelorism.
• Indications include functional disturbances and aesthetic concerns to enhance psychosocial well-being.

Findings:

• Early surgical intervention is crucial for craniostenosis to prevent brain and eye damage.
• Non-urgent interventions are recommended after the age of eight, post-dentition.
• The presented cases highlight the application of craniofacial surgery for specific deformities.

Implications:

• Craniofacial surgery offers functional and aesthetic improvements for patients with deformities.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration is key to successful craniofacial reconstructions.
• Timely surgical intervention can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.