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There exists the widespread concept that most pediatric neurosurgical practice consists merely of extracranial surgery meaning that pediatric neurosurgeons deal almost exclusively with hydrocephalus-valves and myelomeningoceles. Probably, the surgical procedures utilized in correcting cranial vault and base craniosynostosis represent a formidable challenge than only surgeons dedicated to pediatric neurosurgery can appreciate. Surgery for craniosynostosis is usually performed in very young children (normally around age 6-month), who have a very small circulating blood volume and a fragile nature that render them more prone to surgical complications. The craniofacial surgeon must have not only a sound scientific knowledge on the developmental nature of the babies’ brain, as happens in the craniosynostoses, but he/she must also become trained in the numerous surgical techniques that can be used for their treatment. He/she must also develop an artist’s mind, as a sculptor, for modeling the misshapen heads of these children. On performing the surgery, the craniofacial surgeon must also bear in mind the possible and feared complications that may arise during the surgery and along the patients’ evolution aimed at preventing them. There are many early and late complications in this type of surgery that a careful and exquisite surgical technique can prevent. Last, the craniofacial neurosurgeon must be prepared for dealing with the babies’ parents, what we know may constitute a rather difficult task. I remember the case of a baby’s father requesting photographs of our operated patients to see their cosmetic results before giving the consent for his son’s operation.

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2010-01-21   |   705 visitas   |   Evalua este artículo 0 valoraciones

Vol. 19 Núm.6. Noviembre-Diciembre 2008 Pags. 507-508 Neurocirugía 2008; 19(6)