Distraction Osteogenesis for Early Correction of Sagittal Craniosynostosis

ABSTRACT

Sagittal synostosis with related functional aspects of elevated ICP, hydrocephalus, mental retardation and visual abnormalities, or with multiple suture synostosis, surgical correction is imperative. But, craniofacial surgery may impose a threat to an infant or small child. The blood volume in these patients is small and a minor hemorrhage may induce proportionately greater blood loss, resulting in a greater stress to the patient's system. Mortality resulting from craniofacial surgery is uncommon, mostly from operative hemorrhage and infections. Releasing the stenosis and reshaping the cranial vault is the primary operative goal. Authors sought to minimize surgical stress on the child and attain control of cranial vault reshaping by gradual distraction osteogenesis in treating children with sagittal suture synostosis. Three sagittal synostosis patients, aged from 11 months to 3 years old were treated. One of the patients had multiple suture synostosis. Patient follow-up ranged from 3 months to 3 years. Biparietal bone flap was elevated and external distraction devices were inserted. Distraction rate varied from 0.5 to 1mm/day, without a latency period. After a consolidation period of 2-3weeks, the devices were removed. Functional aspects of ICP and mental retardation subsided post surgery. Radiological follow-up showed cessation of enhancement of bone deposition at the frontal and occipital sutures. Excellent aesthetic results were accounted for in all three of the patients. Application of distraction osteogenesis in correcting sagittal craniosynostosis is very effective; surgical stress on the patients is minimal and controlled cranial vault reshaping is possible.