Effect of molding helmet on head shape in nonsurgically treated sagittal craniosynostosis: Clinical article

Object Sagittal craniosynostosis is traditionally considered to be a surgical condition. Poor results of simple suturectomy follow from early reclosure of the suture. A wider craniectomy or use of interposing materials has not improved the outcome. However, endoscopic suturectomy supplemented with postoperative use of a molding helmet has shown good results. Because suturectomy reunites within 8–12 weeks of surgery, the authors questioned if the improved outcome was primarily related to use of the helmet. Methods In 4 patients whose families opted for calvarial reconstruction when the infant was 4–6 months old, instead of endoscopic suturectomy, a molding helmet was used to minimize compensatory changes in the interim. Patients underwent 3D CT scanning to confirm craniosynostosis. Follow-up visits were made at intervals of 4 weeks for adjustment of the helmet, head circumference measurements, clinical photographs, and cranial index measurement. Results There was significant improvement in the head shape w...