Deformational posterior plagiocephaly: diagnosis and treatment

Abstract

Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of helmet therapy (DOC band) in the correction of patients with moderate to severe posterior deformational plagiocephaly.

Design: In this prospective study, the infants were evaluated using 18 anthropometric measurements.

Patients: The charts of 248 patients seen between August 1, 1995, and July 31, 1999, were reviewed, and 125 met the criteria for inclusion in the study. All the patients had posterior deformational plagiocephaly with no other craniofacial deformities or medical conditions. Treatment was instituted prior to 1 year of age, and all patients were compliant with DOC band usage and had complete anthropometric measurements.

Results: The study recorded a 41.56% (p < .001) reduction in cranial vault asymmetry and a 40.23% (p <.001) reduction in cranial base asymmetry. Orbitotragial asymmetry was improved 18.72% (p = .0738). The age at which treatment was begun was not a significant factor in predicting treatment outcomes.