Craniosynostosis

Overview

Craniosynostosis is a condition present at birth (congenital) in which one or more of the joints between the bones of your child's skull (sutures) close prematurely, before your child's brain is fully formed. As a result, your child's brain's growth is inhibited and your child's head develops into an abnormal shape. Other conditions often associated with craniosynostosis include Apert syndrome, Crouzon syndrome, Pfeiffer syndrome, Carpenter syndrome and Saethre-Chotzen syndrome. View types of craniosynostosis.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Experience. Doctors at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota have experience in treating children who have craniosynostosis, craniofacial disorders or other neurological conditions. Mayo Clinic doctors provide the most current treatment options for children, including minimally invasive neurosurgery.
• Team approach. At Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, doctors trained in treating children who have brain and nervous system conditions (pediatric neurology and pediatric neurosurgery), and trained in plastic and reconstructive surgery, hereditary conditions in children (pediatric genetics), physical medicine and rehabilitation and other areas work together to evaluate and treat children who have craniosynostosis or other craniofacial disorders. Staff cares for children requiring hospitalization in the Mayo Eugenio Litta Children's Hospital at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota.
• Research. Mayo Clinic doctors and surgeons conduct research in genetics, causes and treatment options for craniosynostosis and other neurological conditions, and conduct clinical trials.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked high performing for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic also ranks among the Best Children's Hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery.

Read more about craniosynostosis at MayoClinic.com.