The craniofacial dysostosis syndromes. Staging of reconstruction and management of secondary deformities.

During the past several decades, since the introduction of craniofacial surgery by Dr. Tessier in 1967, craniomaxillofacial surgery has advanced in many ways. Craniosynostosis is a common craniofacial malformation and requires a thoughtful team approach to select the preferred timing and technical aspects of reconstruction. The current approach to the correction of the deformities associated with the craniofacial dysostosis syndromes is to stage the reconstruction to coincide with facial growth patterns, visceral function, and psychosocial development. Recognition of the need for a staged reconstructive approach serves to clarify the objectives of each phase of treatment both for the clinicians and family. By continuing to define our rationale for the timing, method, and extent of surgical intervention and then objectively evaluating both functional and morphologic outcomes, we will improve the outlook for patients affected by these disorders.