Craniosynostosis

Condition

Craniosynostosis is a birth defect that occurs when one or more growth plates in the skull have fused abnormally.

This causes an irregular head shape, where your baby’s skull may appear long, triangular or asymmetric. The size of the eyes and the position of the ears may also be affected. Most importantly, early closure of the growth plates of the skull can cause increased pressure on the brain, which can lead to developmental delay and permanent brain damage. Surgery is usually performed to prevent these problems from occurring.

Treatment

Treatment is recommended within the first year of life to optimize brain development. The Craniofacial Team offers traditional open cranial reconstruction and also newer endoscopic and distraction techniques to achieve the best possible result.

Affiliated Divisions and Care Centers

Neuroplastic Center

The Neuroplastic Center at Brown University Health specializes in advanced care for neuroplastic conditions, combining research and personalized treatment for exceptional patient outcomes.

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People

Albert S. Woo, MD, FACS

Assistant Professor, Chief of Pediatric Plastic Surgery, Director of the Cleft and Craniofacial Center at Hasbro Children’s Hospital
Paul Liu, MD

Professor, Chief of Plastic Surgery at Rhode Island Hospital
Daniel Kwan, MD

Assistant Professor, Chief of Reconstructive Surgery, Lifespan Physician Group
Loree K. Kalliainen, MD

Associate Professor , Hand and Peripheral Nerve Surgeon, Lifespan Physician Group Plastic Surgery
Konstantina A. Svokos, DO, MS

Associate Professor of Neurosurgery and Pediatrics, Director of Fetal Neurosurgery, Co-Director, Neuroplastics, Co-Director, Center for Surgical Treatment of the Developing Brain and Spine, Pediatric Neurosurgeon
Petra Klinge, MD, PhD

Professor of Neurosurgery, Director, Pediatric Neurosurgery, Division Director, Center for Surgical Treatment of the Developing Brain and Spine