Definition of "Cranio"
relating to the skull
What causes craniosynostosis?
usually genetics
What is one reason for treatment?
increased cranial pressure
Definition of "Synostosis"
the fusion of sutures of the skull
Is craniosynostosis common?
it's rare, only 1/2,500 children are affected
How can craniosynostosis affect those who have it?
brain does not have space to grow
Definition of "Fontanelle"
the gap at the top of a baby's head when born
How can you tell if a baby has craniosynostosis?
a distorted skull shape, slower growth in the head compared to rest of the body, etc
How is craniosynostosis most commonly treated?
surgery
At what age do the sutures close?
18 months
Is craniosynostosis deadly?
no, but it can lead to serious complications like head deformity
How old should the baby ideally be when surgery happens?
around 1 year old
How many types of craniosynostosis exist?
4
(sagittal, coronal, metopic, lambdoid)
Which babies are more vulnerable to having craniosynostosis?
if the mother has thyroid disease, the baby is more likely to have craniosynostosis
What happens if craniosynostosis is not treated?
the cranial pressure could lead to brain damage, blindness, & seizures