ABSTRACT
Craniosynostosis, the premature fusion of sutures of the cranial vault or skull base in utero, is a rare condition affecting approximately 1:2 000–1:2 500 live births in the UK and Europe. Craniosynostosis can be broadly subdivided into non-syndromic, single-suture types or more complex multisuture/syndromic types. The syndromic craniosynostoses will have other manifestations specific to the condition in many cases. This chapter provides a discussion on the types of surgical management for both syndromic and nonsyndromic craniosynostosis, noting that there is some overlap in the procedures undertaken. There are various options for management of sagittal synostosis, dependent on the preference of the surgical team and also the age of presentation. In essence, the purpose of operative intervention is to remove the fused suture and address the anteroposterior growth excess. In contrast to the (usually) single-staged procedure for non-syndromic craniosynostosis, the management of syndromic craniosynostosis is more prolonged and complex and involves multiple procedures in many cases.
