Metopic craniosynostosisis a rare form of the birth defect craniosynostosis.
Craniosynostosis takes place if the flexible joints in a babys skull known as sutures fuse prematurely.
These sutures usually stay flexible until your childs second birthday and allow the brain to grow and develop.
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Metopic craniosynostosis pops up if your childs metopic suture fuses prematurely.
The metopic suture runs from the nose up to the sagittal suture on the top of the head.
This condition causes a misshapen skull and head, which may affect brain growth.
Metopic craniosynostosis can range from mild to serious, and may cause long-term complications.
The cause is unclear, but the condition may be associated with a genetic disorder.
Treatment for metopic craniosynostosis almost always requires surgery to correct the skulls shape.
These delays may be noticeable right away or may not show up until a child starts school.
The front of the head will appear narrow, and the eyes will look close together.
This triangular shape to the skull is known as trigonocephaly.
You may also notice aprominent ridgeacross your childs forehead, while the back of their head appears flat.
In addition to physical symptoms, metopic synostosis is associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental delays.
Craniosynostosis is most likely because of a combination of both genetic and environmental factors.
Risk factors associated with craniosynostosis include:
Metopic craniosynostosis is sometimes a symptom of a genetic disorder.
Your doctor will also feel your childs soft spot, or fontanel, on the top of their head.
Studies have found that the anterior fontanel closes in 55% of metopic craniosynostosis cases.
Your doctor will also ask detailed questions about your family history, pregnancy, and delivery.
This benign condition is sparked by your baby lying in the same position for long periods of time.
A babys flexible skull bones start to flatten on the affected side, usually the back of the head.
This condition can be treated with a molding helmet.
A CT scan with 3D reconstruction is considered the most accurate way to diagnose metopic craniosynostosis.
This test can show your childs metopic suture, as well as any abnormalities in the brain.
There are two surgical treatment options for craniosynostosis: endoscopic craniosynostosis surgery and calvarial vault remodeling.
Instead, metopic craniosynostosis usually requires calvarial vault remodeling.
Timeline
Metopic craniosynostosis is usually diagnosed at birth or shortly afterward.
Once diagnosed, your doctor will discuss a treatment timeline with you.
Surgery will most likely occur shortly after your little one turns 6 months old.
Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for the best outcome for a baby with metopic craniosynostosis.
They may be noticeable right away or may not show up until a child starts school.
Early diagnosis and treatment are important for treatment success.
It may be helpful to write down your questions ahead of time.
Talk with your medical team about how to find a local support group or online community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is metopic craniosynostosis?
The metopic suture runs from the nose to the top of the head.
This condition can limit the room for your baby’s brain to grow and cause developmental delays.
How is surgery done for metopic craniosynostosis?
This procedure is called calvarial vault remodeling.
When should you see the doctor for metopic craniosynostosis?
How common is metopic craniosynostosis surgery?
Most babies with metopic craniosynostosis need surgery to correct the condition.
Surgery is typically recommended after a child turns 6 months old.
When this happens, the skull grows into a triangular shape and does not allow for brain growth.
This is a scary diagnosis for parents to hear.
Its helpful to remember that metopic craniosynostosis is treatable with surgery.
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