Definition: Scaphocephaly (also know as, dolichocephaly) refers to the condition where the head is disproportionately long and narrow (see cranial index.  Scaphocephaly can result from the premature fusion of the sagittal suture (see craniosynostosis) or from external deformation. Scaphocephaly is particularly common among infants who are born prematurely.

Images of scaphocephaly provided courtesy of Cranial Technologies, Inc.

Incidence:

Diagnosis: The diagnosis begins with an examination by a pediatrician, pediatric neurosurgeon or craniofacial surgeon. A primary objective of the examination is to rule out craniosynostosis (a condition that requires surgical correction). The initial examination involves questions about gestation, birth, in utero and post-natal positioning (for example, sleeping position). The physical examination includes inspection of the infant's head and may involve palpation (carefully feeling) of the child's skull for suture ridges and soft spots (the fontanelles). The physician may also request x-rays or computerized tomography (a CAT scan, a series of photographic images of the skull). These images provide the most reliable method for diagnosing premature fusion of the sagittal suture (craniosynostosis). In addition, the physician may make (or order) a series of measurements from the child's face and head [more on cranial anthropometry]. These measurements will be used to assess severity and monitor treatment.

Treatment: The treatment of scaphocephaly depends upon the etiology (cause) of the condition:

• Scaphocephaly resulting from fusion of the sagittal suture (craniosynostosis) must be treated surgically. Parents should consult a pediatric neurosurgeon or a craniofacial surgeon to discuss treatment option.
  
• Depending upon severity, scaphocephaly resulting from external/positional deformation can be treated with repositioning and/or head banding. Parents should consult a pediatrician, a pediatric neurosurgeon or a craniofacial surgeon for information on repositioning and/or for referral and a prescription for head banding.

Support Groups:

• Plagiocephaly Parents Support
• Parents of Premature Babies Inc. (Preemie-L)
• Preemies.Org

Parent/Child Experiences

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Recommended Links:

• An image of the skull of a newborn showing the location of major bones and sutures [source: Medline Plus]