Simultaneous multiple vector distraction for craniosynostosis syndromes

Abstract

Syndromic craniosynostoses are commonly treated conditions in craniofacial units. The features of the common syndromes (Apert, Pfeiffer and Crouzon) all include craniosynostosis, mid-face hypoplasia and ocular proptosis. The craniofacial management of a child with these syndromes through to adulthood may require a number of surgical interventions to allow brain development, to provide an adequate airway, to prevent corneal ulceration and to provide a functional dental occlusion. The management of these different priorities into timed interventions in our unit is determined by established protocols.

We report two cases that underwent simultaneous mid-face (Le Fort III) and fronto-orbital osteotomies followed by distraction but using different vectors to advance the upper and mid-face regions (to achieve all treatment goals) in a 12-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl.