​Craniosynostosis

The human skull provides a cavity and support system for the brain structure and is composed of many bones that are joined together through fibrous joints called sutures. At the time of birth, in an infant, these bones are not fused together because the skull needs to expand as the brain develops with the developing age of the infant. The sutures allow the bones of brain to be flexible enough to move as the brain grows larger. Within few years, when the brain is fully grown, all the sutures close up and bones fuse together to form a solid skull. In some infants, one or some of the sutures are already closed at the time of birth. This premature fusion of bones in the skull is termed as Craniosynostosis.

Closure of a single suture does not allow the skull to expand from that specific area, but, to provide enough intracranial space for the growing brain, the skull expands from some other portion resulting in an abnormally shaped head. Closure of multiple sutures causes an increase in intracranial pressure, resulting in certain neurological disorders along with non-symmetrical head shape.​

Symptoms of craniosynostosis can vary depending on which sutures are affected. Common signs include:

  • An irregularly shaped head
  • A hard ridge along the affected suture
  • Premature disappearance of the soft spot (fontanelle)
  • Slow or no increase in head circumference as the baby grows
  • In severe cases, increased intracranial pressure, which can cause irritability, vomiting, and developmental delays​
Symptoms may range from mild to severe, depending on the number of sutures involved.

You should consult a doctor if your child exhibits:

  • An unusual head shape or asymmetry
  • A ridge along the sutures of the skull
  • Poor growth of the head circumference
  • Signs of increased intracranial pressure, such as irritability, vomiting, or seizures

Early evaluation and intervention by a pediatric specialist are essential for managing craniosynostosis effectively.

Your time with your doctor may be limited, so make sure to prepare for your visit beforehand. Here are some tips to help get you started.

Diagnosing craniosynostosis typically involves:

  • Physical Exam: The doctor will examine the baby's head for shape abnormalities and feel for ridges along the sutures.
  • Imaging Tests:
    • X-rays: To detect premature closure of sutures.
    • CT Scans: Provide detailed images of the skull and brain, confirming the diagnosis and identifying the sutures involved.
  • Genetic Testing: If a syndromic form of craniosynostosis is suspected, genetic testing may be conducted to identify any underlying genetic conditions.

These tests help determine the severity of the condition and guide treatment planning.

The treatment approach depends on the severity and type of craniosynostosis:

  • Observation: Mild cases may not require treatment, especially if brain growth is not restricted.
  • Surgery:
    • Cranial Vault Remodeling: A procedure to reshape the skull and create space for the brain to grow.
    • Endoscopic Surgery: A less invasive option, typically performed in infants younger than 6 months, to correct the shape of the skull.
  • Helmet Therapy: Often used after surgery to help guide the skull's growth and shape.

Early surgical intervention is generally recommended to ensure normal brain and skull development.

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers various support services to help with managing or recovering from the disease or condition. These include but are not limited to nutrition, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, specialized clinics, and some patient support groups. Your doctor or nurse will advise you accordingly.

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers financial assistance to those who are in need and fulfil the eligibility criteria. For further information, you can contact the Patient Welfare Department. You can find the contact number of the Patient Welfare Department in the 'Important Numbers' section on the website homepage.

The financial counselling staff is available during office hours, at the main PBSD (Patient Business Services Department), to answer your financial queries on treatments' costs and authorize admissions on partial deposit as per hospital policies allow. The financial counsellor in the emergency room is open 24/7. You can find the contact number of the Patient Business Services in the 'Important Numbers' section on the website homepage​.

Your doctor and or nurse will give you specific instructions about the prescribed medication. Please ensure that you take or use the prescribed medicine as advised. It can be dangerous to your health if you self-prescribe. Please inform the doctor or nurse beforehand if you have experienced any adverse reactions to any medications in the past. If you experience any symptoms of drug poisoning, overdose, or severe reaction please contact the Pharmacy Services at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately. You can find the contact number of the Pharmacy Services in the 'Important Numbers' section on the website homepage.​
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The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.​