Craniosynostosis is a condition in which one or more of the sutures in a baby’s skull close too early, before the brain has fully developed. At LCU, we provide comprehensive care for children with this complex condition through a multidisciplinary team of craniofacial specialists.
In a newborn, the skull is made up of several bones joined by flexible sutures. These sutures allow the skull to grow as the brain develops. Craniosynostosis occurs when a suture fuses prematurely, potentially leading to:
Craniosynostosis can involve a single suture (simple) or multiple sutures (complex). Some types of craniosynostosis are caused by an underlying genetic condition, although many have no known cause
Common types include:
In some cases, craniosynostosis occurs as part of a genetic syndrome. This is known as syndromic craniosynostosis, and it is often associated with additional anomalies affecting the face, hands, or other parts of the body. Common syndromes include Apert, Crouzon, Pfeiffer, and Muenke syndromes. These cases often require more complex surgical planning and long-term multidisciplinary care, including genetic counselling.
Diagnosis typically involves:
Early and accurate diagnosis is essential to guide treatment and monitor brain development.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of craniosynostosis. At LCU, we offer:
Our experienced team, including craniofacial surgeons, neurosurgeons, paediatricians, and specialized anaesthetists, works together to create an individualized treatment plan for each child.
We provide ongoing follow-up as your child grows, ensuring proper skull development, cognitive progress, and aesthetic outcomes. Our support includes:
LCU have produced informative content to give patients a greater understanding of their procedure.
Professor David Dunaway, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon at LCU discusses Apert Syndrome.
Behind every successful outcome is a dedicated team. Meet the clinical team whose expertise and compassion make LCU world-renowned.
Bringing decades of experience in complex Craniofacial and reconstructive surgery.
Professor Owase Jeelani is a Consultant Paediatric Neurosurgeon and has worked at Great Ormand Street Hospital for Children (GOSH) part...
Mr Lloyd is the Senior Consultant Craniofacial, Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon at the Eastman Dental Hospital and was appointed at...
Mr Zubair Tahir is an experienced Consultant Paediatric Neurosurgeon, who is passionate about delivering the highest quality care to all children....
Mr Kristian Aquilina is the surgical lead for the neuro-oncology department at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children since 2012....
Graeme Glass PhD, FRCS(Plast) MBA is a London trained, internationally respected consultant plastic, craniofacial and aesthetic surgeon.
Dr Justin Shute is a Consultant Liaison Psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience working within Orthognathic and Craniofacial teams....
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