ABSTRACT
Most forms of craniosynostosis are random and non-syndromic, occurring as isolated incidences and are not associated with any other conditions or deformities. In the United States, non-syndromic craniosynostosis occurs in approximately 1 in 1000 live births. Diagnosis is based on both clinical and radiographic evaluations. The clinical evaluation involves the palpation of the skull for any movement, ridging and absence or presence of the anterior and posterior fontanelles. The pre-operative assessment should include a complete blood count and a basic metabolic panel. It is imperative that the child be cross-matched for at least two units of packed red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma and platelets before surgery. The blood must be available in the operating theatre before incision. Central venous catheterization and large-bore peripheral venous access greatly assist the anaesthesia team in monitoring and resuscitation associated with significant blood loss and fluid shifts that may occur during the operation.
