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Complications
By Mayo Clinic staffBabies with craniosynostosis, particularly those with an underlying syndrome, may develop increased pressure inside the skull (intracranial pressure). Their skulls don't expand enough to make room for their growing brains.
If untreated, increased intracranial pressure can cause:
- Blindness
- Seizures
- Brain damage
- Death, in rare instances
In addition, facial deformities that affect the middle of your child's face may cause:
- Upper airway obstructions, compromising your baby's ability to breathe
- Permanent head deformity
- Problems with speech and language development
- Poor self-esteem
References
- Craniosynostosis information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/craniosynostosis/craniosynostosis.htm. Accessed Aug. 9, 2011.
- Stal S, et al. Overview of craniosynostosis. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Aug. 9, 2011.
- Craniosynostosis and craniofacial disorders. American Association of Neurological Surgeons. http://www.aans.org/en/Patient%20Information/Conditions%20and%20Treatments/Craniosynostosis%20and%20Craniofacial%20Disorders.aspx. Accessed Aug. 9, 2011.
- Back to Sleep public education campaign. National Institute of Child Health & Human Development. http://www.nichd.nih.gov/sids. Accessed Aug 9, 2011.
- Stal S, et al. Craniosynostosis syndromes. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Aug. 9, 2011.
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