Posterior calvarial vault expansion using distraction osteogenesis

Abstract

Objectives: Management of raised intracranial pressure in syndromic multi-suture craniosynostosis by cranial vault expansion can be achieved by a number of techniques. We present our initial experience in treating this group of patients with posterior calvarial distraction.

Materials and methods: Six patients underwent distraction osteogenesis of their posterior calvarial vault.

Results: The mean period of distraction was 28 days. The mean consolidation period was 49 days. The mean distance of advancement was 24 mm. Five out of six patients completed their period of distraction and three of these cases also completed their period of consolidation. Significant calvarial expansion and improvement of head shape was achieved in all cases.

Conclusions: Posterior calvarial distraction is a safe and more efficient method of calvarial expansion than conventional techniques. These are early promising results, and future modification of the distraction devices will be needed if the effective consolidation time is to be increased.