J Korean Cleft Palate-Craniofac Assoc.  2002 Oct;3(2):108-112.

Correction of Craniosynostosis using Distraction Osteogenesis via Endoscopic Approach

• Park SW
• Kim MS
• Tark MS
• Kim YB

Abstract

Craniosynostosis is the term that designates premature fusion of one or more structures in either crania1 vault or cranial base. Various surgical methods including frontal bone advancement and crania1 vault remodeling have been developed in order to correct craniosynostosis. Nowadays, distraction osteogenesis technique has been successfully used by many plastic surgeons. We have experienced several patients with craniosynostosis who had surgical correction using distraction device. All patients obtained satisfactory results and no relapses were observed during the follow-up period. However, previous approaches have required bicoronal incisions and extensive scalp mobilization for adequate exposure. The specific technique of using the endoscope in assisting and perfoming osteotomies and inserting distraction devices made less blood loss, less blood transfused, less operative time, shorter length of stay, overall less expenses, and less visible scars. In conclusion, the endoscopic technique for early correction of craniosynostosis is safe and can be used for correction of other various deformities of craniosynostosis. Because of the minimal invasive technique, the patients with craniosynostosis can be treated at a very early age.

Keyword

Craniosynostosis; Distraction osteogenesis; Endoscope

MeSH Terms

Cicatrix
Congenital Abnormalities
Craniosynostoses*
Endoscopes
Follow-Up Studies
Frontal Bone
Humans
Length of Stay
Operative Time
Osteogenesis, Distraction*
Osteotomy
Recurrence
Scalp
Skull Base