3D stereophotogrammetric analysis of operative effects after broad median craniectomy in premature sagittal craniosynostosis.

INTRODUCTION

There is ongoing discussion on the diagnostic methods, the need of surgical treatment, and the surgical strategies for premature craniosynostosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study examined the operative procedure of a standardized broad median craniectomy, active tilting of the forehead, and bitemporal greenstick fracturing in children with premature sagittal craniosynostosis. To objectively analyze the direct surgical results, we used a 3D stereophotogrammetry scanner, as previously described.

RESULTS

A 3D analysis showed a significant increase in the width, cranial index (CI), head and coronal circumferences, intracranial volume, and cranial base width after surgery. Head length was the only parameter that demonstrated a significant decrease postoperatively. Asymmetry and the 30° diagonal difference showed no significant changes.

CONCLUSION

3D stereophotogrammetry is a reliable and valuable tool with no side effects. It demonstrated that the extended surgical procedure achieves good postoperative results with a reduced length and increased width and, therefore, an improved CI. Additionally, the total intracranial volume was significantly increased after surgery.