How do you know if your baby has craniosynostosis?

Usually, the first sign of craniosynostosis is an abnormally shaped skull. Other signs may include: No “soft spot” on the baby’s skull. A raised firm edge where the sutures closed early.

What is craniosynostosis syndrome?

Craniosynostosis (kray-nee-o-sin-os-TOE-sis) is a birth defect in which one or more of the fibrous joints between the bones of your baby’s skull (cranial sutures) close prematurely (fuse), before your baby’s brain is fully formed. Brain growth continues, giving the head a misshapen appearance.

How early can craniosynostosis be diagnosed?

But as your baby grows, a misshapen head could be a sign of something else. The earlier you can get a diagnosis—ideally, before the age of 6 months—the more effective treatment can be. Craniosynostosis is a condition in which the sutures in a child’s skull close too early, causing problems with head growth.

Can craniosynostosis be cured?

Craniosynostosis is treated by surgery that opens the fused sutures. This creates space for brain growth. A variety of surgeries may be used. The surgeon will discuss the craniosynostosis treatment options available for your child.

Is surgery necessary for craniosynostosis?

Craniosynostosis is often diagnosed in very young infants, and doctors may recommend surgery. It’s natural to feel anxiety about surgery for a small baby, however, surgery for craniosynostosis is highly successful.

How serious is craniosynostosis in babies?

Craniosynostosis can affect a child’s brain and development. The degree of the problems depends on the severity of the craniosynostosis, the number of sutures that are fused, and the presence of brain or other organ system problems that could affect the child.

How do you treat craniosynostosis?

Treating craniosynostosis usually involves surgery to unlock and bones and reshape the skull. Historically, craniosynostosis has been treated using surgical methods that involve an incision from ear to ear and the removal, reshaping, and reattachment of affected bones. Sometimes this is still the best option.