What is craniosynostosis and why does it require surgery in a child?

Craniosynostosis (sometimes called craniostenosis) is a condition in which one or more of the sutures in a baby’s skull close (fuse) too early. These sutures are like expansion joints that allow the skull (and brain) to grow. When a suture fuses prematurely, it can lead to an abnormally shaped head and, more importantly, can constrain the growing brain. If not corrected, it might cause increased pressure on the brain and potential developmental issues. Early surgery is the treatment for craniosynostosis. The neurosurgeon  will open the fused suture and reshape the skull bones. This procedure, done in infancy (usually before 1 year of age, often around 6–9 months old), allows the brain to grow normally and also improves the head’s shape. Cosmetic correction isn’t just about appearance – a more typical skull shape can positively impact the child’s social and psychological development, as the child won’t have to grow up with an unusual head shape. The surgery might sound daunting, but it is generally very successful. Babies’ skulls are soft and heal quickly. After the expansion surgery, the brain has the space it needs, and typically the child’s development proceeds normally. In short, craniosynostosis is a mechanical issue (bones fused too early) that we fix mechanically (by reopening and correcting the bones), and doing so early prevents brain damage and sets the child up for normal growth