Sagittal synostosis--its clinical significance and the results of three different methods of craniectomy

Direct Occipital Remodeling in Sagittal Synostosis Improves 2-Year Posterior Morphology after Modified Pi Procedure

BACKGROUND

Modifications of the pi craniectomy technique are meant to address the occipital bullet deformity of sagittal synostosis, but it is not clear whether they result in persistent improvement. The authors' purpose was to use morphometric analysis to determine whether a low occipital osteotomy with verticalization results in improved occipital shape after a modified pi procedure 2 years after surgery.

METHOD

The authors performed a retrospective cohort study comparing modified pi technique with and without a low occipital osteotomy with verticalization immediately and 2 years after surgery relative to age-matched normal controls. The authors used anthropometric measures and population-level anatomical templates using the multivariate template construction script from advanced normalization tools for comparison between groups. A subgroup analysis was performed for severe occipital bullet deformity at presentation.

RESULTS

The authors observed stable improvement in the angle of the inferior occiput with the occipital remodeling modification that persisted 2 years after surgery. This improvement was seen in the entire cohort and was greater in the severe subgroup analysis. Complications and blood transfusion volumes were not different between the 2 techniques. The low occipital osteotomy group demonstrated improved posterior vertical height and cephalic index immediately after surgery, but these did not persist 2 years later.

CONCLUSIONS

Occipital remodeling improves the bullet deformity but does not affect posterior vertical height 2 years after surgery. The authors recommend direct inferior occipital remodeling when using the pi technique for young patients with acute occipital incline angles and occipital constriction.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, III.

Tranexamic acid decreases transfusion requirements during the modified pi-plasty procedure for sagittal craniosynostosis

The aim of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness of intraoperative tranexamic acid (TXA) administration in decreasing transfusion needs in patients undergoing modified pi-plasty. A retrospective study was performed using a population of 59 patients who underwent modified pi-plasty, wherein patients who received TXA during surgery (study group, n = 26) were compared with patients who did not receive TXA (control group, n = 33). The primary study endpoints were intraoperative red blood cell substitution (%), postoperative red blood cell substitution (%), total red blood cell substitution (%), and hematocrit variation. Perioperative administration of TXA significantly decreased the total red blood cell substitution (62.90% vs 86.70%; p = 0.002) and resulted in a higher postoperative hematocrit (29.47% vs 27.53%; p = 0.060). In conclusion, perioperative administration of TXA significantly decreased blood transfusion requirements in patients with sagittal craniosynostosis undergoing modified pi-plasty.

A preliminary analysis of replicating the biomechanics of helmet therapy for sagittal craniosynostosis

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the biomechanics of endoscopically assisted strip craniectomy treatment for the management of sagittal craniosynostosis while undergoing three different durations of postoperative helmet therapy using a computational approach.

METHODS

A previously developed 3D model of a 4-month-old sagittal craniosynostosis patient was used. The strip craniectomy incisions were replicated across the segmented parietal bones. Areas across the calvarial were selected and constrained to represent the helmet placement after surgery. Skull growth was modelled and three variations of helmet therapy were investigated, where the timings of helmet removal alternated between 2, 5, and 8 months after surgery.

RESULTS

The predicted outcomes suggest that the prolonging of helmet placement has perhaps a beneficial impact on the postoperative long-term morphology of the skull. No considerable difference was found on the pattern of contact pressure at the interface of growing intracranial volume and the skull between the considered helmeting durations.

CONCLUSION

Although the validation of these simulations could not be performed, these simulations showed that the duration of helmet therapy after endoscopically assisted strip craniectomy influenced the cephalic index at 36 months. Further studies require to validate these preliminary findings yet this study can lay the foundations for further studies to advance our fundamental understanding of mechanics of helmet therapy.

Elevated intracranial pressure with craniosynostosis: a multivariate model of age, syndromic status, and number of involved cranial sutures

OBJECTIVE

Children with multiple prematurely fused cranial sutures and those undergoing surgical correction later in life appear to experience worse neurocognitive outcomes, but it is unclear whether higher intracranial pressure (ICP) is implicated in this process. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effect of age at intervention and number of involved cranial sutures on ICP, as well as to assess which cranial suture closure may be more associated with elevated ICP.

METHODS

The prospective craniofacial database at the authors' institution was queried for patients undergoing initial corrective surgery for craniosynostosis in whom intraoperative measurement of ICP was obtained prior to craniectomy. Age, involved sutures, and syndromic status were analyzed in the context of measured ICP by using multiple linear regression.

RESULTS

Fifty patients met the inclusion criteria. Age at procedure (p = 0.028, β = +0.060 mm Hg/month) and multiple-suture involvement (p = 0.010, β = +4.175 mm Hg if multisuture) were both significantly implicated in elevated ICP. The actual number of major sutures involved was significantly correlated to ICP (p = 0.001; β = +1.687 mm Hg/suture). Among patients with single-suture involvement, there was an overall significant difference of median ICP across the suture types (p = 0.008), with metopic having the lowest (12.5 mm Hg) and sagittal having the highest (16.0 mm Hg). Patients with multiple-suture involvement had significantly higher ICP (p = 0.003; 18.5 mm Hg). Patients with craniofacial syndromes were 79.3 times more likely to have multiple-suture involvement (p < 0.001). Corrective surgery for craniosynostosis demonstrated significant intraoperative reduction of elevated ICP (all p < 0.050).

CONCLUSIONS

Syndromic status, older age at intervention for craniosynostosis, and multiple premature fusion of cranial sutures were associated with significantly higher ICP.

Predicting and comparing three corrective techniques for sagittal craniosynostosis

Sagittal synostosis is the most occurring form of craniosynostosis, resulting in calvarial deformation and possible long-term neurocognitive deficits. Several surgical techniques have been developed to correct these issues. Debates as to the most optimal approach are still ongoing. Finite element method is a computational tool that's shown to assist with the management of craniosynostosis. The aim of this study was to compare and predict the outcomes of three reconstruction methods for sagittal craniosynostosis. Here, a generic finite element model was developed based on a patient at 4 months of age and was virtually reconstructed under all three different techniques. Calvarial growth was simulated to predict the skull morphology and the impact of different reconstruction techniques on the brain growth up to 60 months of age. Predicted morphology was then compared with in vivo and literature data. Our results show a promising resemblance to morphological outcomes at follow up. Morphological characteristics between considered techniques were also captured in our predictions. Pressure outcomes across the brain highlight the potential impact that different techniques have on growth. This study lays the foundation for further investigation into additional reconstructive techniques for sagittal synostosis with the long-term vision of optimizing the management of craniosynostosis.

Anthropometric changes in the skull base in children with sagittal craniosynostosis submitted to surgical correction

PURPOSE

Studies have examined the impact of fusion of the sagittal suture in the skull base while others have evaluated the growth of the skull base before and after surgery. This study aims to perform the anthropometric measures of the skull base in children with scaphocephaly to evaluate the influence of surgical repair in the remodeling of the skull base and anthropometric measures.

METHODS

Twenty-one children with diagnosis of scaphocephaly were operated between April 2007 and October 2008, and anthropometric measures at the skull base were performed before and after a year of surgery. The measures were the cranial index (CI), distance between the crista galli and tuberculum sellar (CG-TS), distance between the crista galli and the internal auditory meatus (CG-IAM), distance between the oval foramen (OF-OF), distance between the internal auditory meatus (IAM-IAM), the angle of the skull base (Â1), and the angle between the nasion, center of sella, and basion (Â2).

RESULTS

There was a normalization of the CI in all children, confirming an appropriate cranial remodeling. The CG-TS measure evaluated the anterior skull base, with proportional growth of 12.5%. The mediolateral growth was observed by the increase of OF-OF measures by 8.5% and IAM-IAM by 9.5%. The CG-TS measure grew by 7.2%. There was no statistical difference in the angles analyzed.

CONCLUSION

Surgical treatment of scaphocephaly led to remodeling of the skull base, confirmed by the changes of anthropometric measures taken before and after a year of surgery.

New method for quantification of severity of isolated scaphocephaly linked to intracranial volume

PURPOSE

The aim is to implement Utrecht Cranial Shape Quantificator (UCSQ) for quantification of severity of scaphocephaly and compare UCSQ with the most used quantification method, cranial index (CI). Additionally, severity is linked to intracranial volume (ICV).

METHODS

Sinusoid curves of 21 pre-operative children (age < 2 years) with isolated scaphocephaly were created. Variables of UCSQ (width of skull and maximum occiput and forehead) were combined to determine severity. CI was calculated. Three raters performed visual scoring for clinical severity (rating of 6 items; total score of 12 represents most severe form). Pearson's correlation test was used for correlation between UCSQ and visual score and between both CIs. ICV was calculated using OsiriX. ICV was compared to normative values and correlated to severity.

RESULTS

Mean UCSQ was 22.00 (2.00-42.00). Mean traditional CI was 66.01 (57.36-78.58), and mean visual score was 9.1 (7-12). Correlations between both traditional CI and CI of UCSQ and overall visual scores were moderate and high (r = - 0.59; p = 0.005 vs. r = - 0.81; p < 0.000). Mean ICV was 910 mL (671-1303), and ICV varied from decreased to increased compared to normative values. Negligible correlation was found between ICV and UCSQ (r = 0.26; p > 0.05) and between ICV and CI and visual score (r = - 0.30; p > 0.05 and r = 0.17; p > 0.05, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our current advice is to use traditional CI in clinical practice; it is easy to use and minimally invasive. However, UCSQ is more precise and objective and captures whole skull shape. Therefore, UCSQ is preferable for research. Additionally, more severe scaphocephaly does not result in more deviant skull volumes.

Biparietal meander expansion technique for sagittal suture synostosis in patients older than 1 year of age-technical note

OBJECTIVE

Sagittal suture synostosis (SSS) is the most common form of craniosynostosis. For older patients, the strategy for surgical correction needs to consider diminished growth dynamics of the skull and an active reconstruction cranioplasty aims to sustain stability for the active child. We describe our technique of biparietal meander expansion (BME) technique for SSS for patients older than 1 year and retrospectively reviewed the perioperative course as well as the subjective experience of patients and caregivers during follow-up.

METHODS

The BME technique incorporates bilateral serpentine craniotomies and fixation of the consecutively expanded bone tongues with crossing sutures for patients with SSS older than 12 months of age at surgery. We reviewed patients undergoing this surgical technique for correction of SSS and collected data about the clinical course and performed a patients reported outcome measure (PROM) for patients or caregivers to evaluate subjective experience and outcome after surgical treatment.

RESULTS

BME was performed in 31 patients (8 females; median age: 43 months; range 13-388). The mean length of operation was 172.7±43 minutes (range 115-294). Patients experienced no immediate complications or neurological morbidity after surgery. Considering a total of 21 completed PROM questionnaires, the head shape after surgery was evaluated as either "better" (57%) or "much better" (43%) compared to preoperatively. Eighty-one percent of patients or caregivers answered that the patient experiences no limitation in daily activities. Although 42.8% perceived the hospital as strenuous, 90.5% would choose to undergo this treatment again.

CONCLUSION

BME is a feasible technique for older SSS patients resulting in immediate stability of the remodelled calvarium with a more normal head shape. The survey among caregivers or patients revealed a favourable subjectively experienced outcome after this type of surgical treatment of SSS in the more complex context of an older patient cohort.

Visualization of skull remodeling and re-ossification after reconstructive surgery and mosaic-like cranioplasty in sagittal synostosis and deformational brachycephaly1

INTRODUCTION

Extended vertex craniectomy in sagittal synostosis (SS) and transposition craniectomy in severe deformational brachycephaly (DB) combined with mosaic-like cranioplasty (M-LC) have been performed in 17 and 24 infants from 2001 to 2003. The hitherto not well-known mechanisms of remodeling and effectiveness of M-LC is assessed by X-ray and anthropometry.

METHODS

Follow-ups included skull radiograms preoperatively and 3 and 15 months postoperatively, which were analyzed by craniometry according to Haas, long-term anthropometry, and clinical follow-up till mean age of 7.6 and 7.4 years. Analysis included the following: time course of cephalic indexes (CI), sizes of distances (breadth, length, height) and modulus, and mean deviation of distances and modulus from the normal age- and sex-dependent values; evaluation of re-ossification of the operative defects covered by M-L C.

RESULTS

CI in SS is normalized in early follow-up with stabilization thereafter; CI of DB is gradually normalized till late follow-up. Remodeling occurs in both disorders by active and passive mechanisms: increased growth of distances with preoperative minus and decreased growth of distances with surplus. The latter mechanism adds more to the postoperative remodeling. M-LC leads to concentric and final complete re-ossification of the defects.

DISCUSSION

Significant remodeling of the skull vault is observed in both disorders by the demonstrated time course and mechanisms. M-LC does not hinder early remodeling and guarantees re-ossification of the defects.

Short- and Long-Term Outcomes by Procedure Type for Nonsagittal Single-Suture Craniosynostosis

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive approaches for the treatment of single-suture craniosynostosis are sometimes touted as equivalent to cranial vault reconstruction. While techniques for sagittal synostosis have been reviewed previously, evidence regarding open and less invasive surgical techniques for metopic, coronal, and lambdoid synostosis has yet to be reviewed.

METHODS

Systematic searches were performed using Embase.com and PubMed. Included studies reported short- or long-term outcomes, compared at least 2 standard techniques, discussed single-suture coronal, metopic, or lambdoid craniosynostosis, and enrolled at least 20 study participants. Two authors screened titles and abstracts, and also performed full text review and data extraction. Given heterogeneous outcomes, qualitative synthesis was performed after data extraction.

RESULTS

The search strategy yielded 2348 articles. Of these, 313 were removed as duplicates, and 1935 were excluded during title/abstract review. After full text review of 100 articles, 19 were selected for data extraction. The heterogeneity of outcomes precluded meta-analysis and required qualitative synthesis. While short-term outcomes indicated decreased morbidity of minimally invasive techniques, only 2 articles presented long-term reoperation rates. One study reported higher reoperation rates in the less invasive technique, and the second reported no reoperations in the median follow-up period of 33 months.

CONCLUSION

Studies comparing long-term outcomes between different surgical techniques for single-suture craniosynostosis remain deficient. The development of standardized outcome measures is essential, and prospective, multicenter studies are necessary to assess the long-term efficacy of these procedures.

Regression of cephalic index following endoscopic repair of sagittal synostosis

OBJECTIVEMetrics used to quantify preoperative severity and postoperative outcomes for patients with sagittal synostosis include cephalic index (CI), the well-known standard, and the recently described adjusted cephalic index (aCI), which accounts for altered euryon location. This study tracks the time course of these measures following endoscopic repair with orthotic helmet therapy. The authors hypothesize that CI and aCI show significant regression following endoscope-assisted repair.METHODSCT scans or 3D photographs of patients with nonsyndromic sagittal synostosis treated before 6 months of age by endoscope-assisted strip craniectomy and postoperative helmet therapy (n = 41) were reviewed retrospectively at three time points (preoperatively, 0-2 months after helmeting, and > 24 months postoperatively). The CI and aCI were measured at each time point.RESULTSMean CI and aCI increased from 71.8 to 78.2 and 62.7 to 72.4, respectively, during helmet treatment (p < 0.001). At final follow-up, mean CI and aCI had regressed significantly from 78.2 to 76.5 and 72.4 to 69.7, respectively (p < 0.001). The CI regressed in 33 of 41 cases (80%) and aCI in 39 of 41 cases (95%). The authors observed a mean loss of 31% of improvement in aCI achieved through treatment. A strong, positive correlation existed between CI and aCI (R = 0.88).CONCLUSIONSRegression following endoscope-assisted strip craniectomy with postoperative helmet therapy commonly occurs in patients with sagittal synostosis. Future studies are required to determine whether duration of helmet therapy or modifications in helmet design affect regression.

Is Postoperative Intensive Care Unit Care Necessary following Cranial Vault Remodeling for Sagittal Synostosis?

BACKGROUND

Of U.S. craniofacial and neurosurgeons, 94 percent routinely admit patients to the intensive care unit following cranial vault remodeling for correction of sagittal synostosis. This study aims to examine the outcomes and cost of direct ward admission following primary cranial vault remodeling for sagittal synostosis.

METHODS

An institutional review board-approved retrospective review was undertaken of the records of all patients who underwent primary cranial vault remodeling for isolated sagittal craniosynostosis from 2009 to 2015 at a single pediatric hospital. Patient demographics, perioperative course, and outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

One hundred ten patients met inclusion criteria with absence of other major medical problems. Average age at operation was 6.7 months, with a mean follow-up of 19.8 months. Ninety-eight patients (89 percent) were admitted to a general ward for postoperative care, whereas the remaining 12 (11 percent) were admitted to the intensive care unit for preoperative or perioperative concerns. Among ward-admitted patients, there were four (3.6 percent) minor complications; however, there were no major adverse events, with none necessitating intensive care unit transfers from the ward and no mortalities. Average hospital stay was 3.7 days. The institution's financial difference in cost of intensive care unit stay versus ward bed was $5520 on average per bed per day. Omitting just one intensive care unit postoperative day stay for this patient cohort would reduce projected health care costs by a total of $540,960 for the study period.

CONCLUSION

Despite the common practice of postoperative admission to the intensive care unit following cranial vault remodeling for sagittal craniosynostosis, the authors suggest that postoperative care be considered on an individual basis, with only a small percentage requiring a higher level of care.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, III.

The value of three-dimensional photogrammetry in isolated sagittal synostosis: Impact of age and surgical technique on intracranial volume and cephalic index─a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of intracranial volume (ICV) and cephalic index (CI) between two different techniques for surgical therapy of sagittal synostosis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Between 2011 and 2015, all patients scheduled for surgical therapy of sagittal synostosis were consecutively enrolled. All patients younger than 6 months underwent early extended strip craniectomy (ESC group), and patients older than 6 months underwent late modified pi-procedure (MPP group). To measure ICV and CI, data acquisition was performed via three-dimensional photogrammetry, 1 day before (T0) and between 10 and 12 weeks after surgery (T1). Results were compared with an age-matched reference group of healthy children. Perioperative parameters, as duration of surgery and the amount of blood loss of both surgical procedures were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 85 patients were enrolled. Of the patients, 48 underwent an extended strip craniotomy with parietal osteotomies and biparietal widening and 37 patients underwent a late modified pi-procedure. There was no significant difference between the ESC group and the MPP group regarding the efficacy of improving CI (p > 0.05). Both techniques were able to normalize CI and to improve head shape. ICV was normal compared to age-matched norm-groups with both techniques, pre- and postoperatively. However, duration of the surgical procedure and calculated blood loss were significantly lower in the ESC group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

ESC and MPP were effective techniques to normalize cephalic index (CI) and improve head shape at their recommended time of surgery. Measurement of ICV and CI with 3D photogrammetry is a valid method to objectively evaluate patients before and after surgery without exposing pediatric patients to ionizing radiation.

Review of Past Reports and Current Concepts of Surgical Management for Craniosynostosis

The purposes of surgery for craniosynostosis are to release increased intracranial pressure and to normalize cranial shape. The procedure was developed from a simple strip craniectomy in practice which ranged from the removal of the fused suture before the 1960s to total calvarial remodeling after 1970s and later methods of the 1990s, such as distraction and its modifications. According to its history, craniofacial surgeons might be changing their procedures with more effective, than less invasive ways. Since the late 1990s, when the distraction was applied to the craniofacial surgery, the gradual expansion, in particular of the anterior cranium, common in Japan, has long been controversial until the Caucasians accepted its use for the posterior cranium. Currently, the method may revert to the old procedure because a more sophisticated and better morphological result can be obtained depending on the types of deformity, even if a little more invasive maneuver is required. In other words, if treatment can be performed in optimal time, the procedures that were developed in the last half a century should be altered to each condition.

Long-term developmental follow-up in children with nonsyndromic craniosynostosis

OBJECT

The aim of this study was to determine the distribution of Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) by type of craniosynostosis and to verify the finding that at long-term follow-up, verbal IQ (VIQ) is significantly higher than performance IQ (PIQ) in patients with single-suture sagittal synostosis (SS) despite falling within the "average" range for intelligence. Whether this also occurs in other types of craniosynostosis and whether surgery and sex are relevant were also determined. The relationship between age at time of surgery and later IQ was ascertained.

METHODS

The data for 91 children with craniosynostosis (47 sagittal, 15 unicoronal, 13 metopic, 9 multisuture, and 7 bicoronal) were collected at their routine, 10 years of age IQ assessment (mean age 123.8 months). The patients included 61 males and 30 females; 62 patients had undergone surgery and 29 had not.

RESULTS

The mean FSIQ for all types of craniosynostosis combined (96.2) fell within the average range for the general population. Some variation was evident across the different types of craniosynostosis: the SS group showed the highest FSIQs and a "normal" distribution of bandings; the other types had a higher proportion of FSIQs in the lower bandings. The data confirmed the finding that VIQ is greater than PIQ despite falling within the average range for intelligence, with a difference of 5.0 for all types of craniosynostosis combined (p = 0.001), 7.6 for the SS group (p = 0.001), and 6.9 for the unicoronal group (p = 0.029). This VIQ > PIQ effect was not found with multisuture craniosynostosis. The VIQ > PIQ discrepancy occurred regardless of whether the patient had undergone surgery and occurred more often in males than females. In the SS group and the bicoronal group, FSIQ (p = 0.036 and p = 0.046, respectively) and PIQ (p = 0.012 and p = 0.017, respectively), though not VIQ, were higher when surgery had been performed early.

CONCLUSIONS

The study confirms that at long-term follow-up, although children with nonsyndromic craniosynostosis fall within the normal range for intelligence, there is a VIQ > PIQ discrepancy above what would be expected in the normal population, which may be indicative of more subtle difficulties in achievement. This discrepancy is affected by type of craniosynostosis, sex, and age at time of surgery.

Frontobiparietal remodeling with or without a widening bridge for sagittal synostosis: comparison of 2 cohorts for aesthetic and functional outcome

OBJECT Various techniques to correct sagittal synostosis have been described. The authors of this study assess the results of 2 techniques for late complete cranial remodeling and test the hypothesis that adding a widening bridge would improve outcome. METHODS In this retrospective study, the authors evaluated patients with nonsyndromic sagittal synostosis-those who underwent frontobiparietal remodeling (FBR) and those who underwent modified FBR (MFBR) involving the introduction of a bony bridge to increase the width of the skull. Outcomes for both groups are described in terms of the aesthetic results assessed on photographs and any changes in the cranial index (CI) and head circumference over time, the presence of papilledema, and complaints of headache. The effect of the surgical technique on CI and head circumference over time was assessed using linear regression analysis, with adjustment for preoperative CI and head circumference. RESULTS Sixty-nine patients with isolated sagittal synostosis were included in this study: 35 underwent MFBR and 34 underwent the original technique of FBR. The mean follow-up period was 7 years. In the 1st year after surgery, mean CI improved by 9% in the FBR group and by 12% in the MFBR group. One year after surgery, CI in the MFBR group was on average 4.7% higher than that in the FBR group (p < 0.001). During follow-up, CI decreased in both groups; however, at all time points CI was significantly higher in the MFBR group than in the FBR group. The impact of surgical technique on CI was less important than the impact of preoperative CI (R(2)= 0.26 vs 0.54), and this applied at all time points during follow-up. Head circumference declined during follow-up in both groups. It was influenced by preoperative head circumference, but not by surgical technique. Aesthetic outcome, prevalence of headache (42%), and papilledema (7%) were comparable in both groups. CONCLUSIONS Adding a widening bridge to late complete remodeling significantly improved CI and helped to prevent CI from decreasing in the long term. This addition did not affect the head circumference growth curve. Despite a mean head circumference remaining at +1 SD, patients continued to develop papilledema postoperatively (7%).

Surgical treatment of sagittal synostosis by extended strip craniectomy: cranial index, nasofrontal angle, reoperation rate, and a review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Sagittal synostosis is the most common non-syndromic single suture craniosynostosis. Different techniques of surgical correction, including extended strip craniectomy (ESC), have been used to treat this condition. The aim of this study is to evaluate radiologic changes and rate of symptomatic restenosis after ESC in a large group of patients less than 12 months of age with non-syndromic sagittal synostosis.

METHODS

A retrospective study of patients from 1990 to 2012 was performed comparing cranial index (CI) and nasofrontal angle (NFA) before and after surgical correction by ESC. Also, the frequency of subsequent reoperations for symptomatic restricted head growth was determined.

RESULTS

A total of 238 patients underwent ESC. Follow-up information was available for 182 patients. The average age at the time of the operation was 4.5 months and the mean duration of follow-up was 49.6 months. The average post procedure radiologic follow-up (22 patients) was 40.7 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The mean CI increased from 0.68 to 0.75 (p < 0.001) after ESC. Also, mean NFA increased from 127 to 133° (p < 0.001). Five patients (2.7%) required a second operation due to symptomatic cranial growth restriction. Reoperation occurred at an average of 26.5 months after the initial procedure. The most common symptom reported was headache. ESC is effective in treating non-syndromic sagittal synostosis. It significantly improved NFA without the need for direct frontal bone resection or frontal orbital osteotomy and significantly increased CI without adjunctive helmet treatment. Patients should be followed for at least 5 years after surgical correction as symptomatic restenosis, although rare, can occur.

Results of early surgery for sagittal suture synostosis: long-term follow-up and the occurrence of raised intracranial pressure

PURPOSE

Numerous techniques are used to correct sagittal synostosis. Although cosmetic results and operative complications are well documented, little is known about functional outcome. In our institution, the technique for extended strip craniectomy evolved over time. This study compares cosmetic results, complications, and signs of raised intracranial pressure (ICP) between the variants of the extended strip craniectomy.

METHODS

Seventy-nine consecutive patients undergoing early extended strip craniectomy for scaphocephaly (2002-2008) were included. Four techniques were used: A, a simple bilateral parietal flap with out-fracturing of the bone flap; B, C, and D included remodeling of the parietal flap by adding triangular cuts and bending or suturing the resulting fingers. In technique D, the sagittal strip was rotated and fixed between the parietal flaps. Data on head circumference (HC), skull X-ray, and fundoscopy were collected prospectively.

RESULTS

For all patients, the average cranial index (CI) was 74 after 3 months and 72 after 2 years. Although technique D resulted in the best initial improvement, there was no significant percentage increase in CI after 24 months between the four techniques. Postoperatively, 9 % of the patients developed papilledema, 42 % developed a fontanel bulge, and 57 % had diminished HC. Four patients were reoperated on because of raised ICP.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative CI is mainly determined by preoperative CI and hardly affected by type of extended strip craniectomy. Signs of raised ICP occurred more frequently than expected, therefore structural follow-up is required to detect such signs. Technique and timing of surgery should aim at creating sufficient intracranial volume.

Craniosynostosis

Craniosynostosis is a complex condition, characterized by the premature fusion of one of more of the cranial sutures. They can be seen individually or as part of multisystem syndromes. This review uses computed tomography (CT) with three-dimensional reconstructions to help describe some of the types and classifications of craniosynostosis, as well as describing some of the associations and the management of craniosynostosis.

Immediate spontaneous shape correction using expantile zigzag craniectomy in infantile scaphocephaly -is there an improvement in the developmental quotient following surgery?-

There is still debate over which method of the surgery is the most appropriate for the treatment of scaphocephalic infants. In addition, change in psychomotor development following these procedures is a very complex issue that has not yet been resolved. In this paper, the authors describe a surgical technique for immediate spontaneous shape correction of infantile scaphocephaly. There were significant differences between pre- and postoperative cephalic index. We also describe an improvement in the developmental quotient following surgery. Therefore, this expantile zigzag craniectomy should be recommended to correct for isolated sagittal craniosynostosis in infants.

Cephalic index of Japanese children with normal brain development

The cephalic index is a method of assessing skull morphology in craniosynostosis. There are known racial differences; however, there are few reports on this index in Japan. In this study, we investigated the cephalic indices of Japanese children with normal brain development using axial slice computed tomography. Children presented to our institution because of head injuries but received no particular diagnosis. One hundred four children with normal brain development (62 males and 42 females) were divided into 7 age categories, namely, 4 categories for those younger than 1 year and 3 categories for those between 1 and 3 years. The cephalic index was calculated according to the following equation: (cephalic width/cephalic length) × 100. The cephalic indices by age groups were as follows: 86.7, 0 to 3 months (n = 21); 87.5, 4 to 6 months (n = 9); 89.2, 7 to 9 months (n = 16); 86.3, 10 to 12 months (n = 9); 85.9, 1 year (n = 25); 86.3, 2 years (n = 15); and 83.7, 3 years (n = 9). In this study, the cephalic indices of Japanese children with normal brain development tended to be more brachycephalic than those of white children, as reported by Haas and Waitzman. Thus, we formulated the classification of current cephalic indices of children with normal brain development in Japan.

SPRING-MEDIATED CRANIOPLASTY COMPARED WITH THE MODIFIED PI-PLASTY FOR SAGITTAL SYNOSTOSIS

The aim of this study was to compare the safety, morphological outcome, and degree of parental satisfaction of the new spring-mediated cranioplasty with those of the modified pi-plasty in the management of sagittal synostosis. Ten patients with non-syndromic sagittal synostosis treated with the spring-mediated cranioplasty were followed prospectively. A control group of 10 sex-matched patients operated on with the modified pi-plasty procedure was chosen. Cephalometric radiographs were obtained preoperatively and postoperatively at 1 year of age. Cephalic index, axial width ratio, length ratio, width ratio and height ratio were used as objective measures of outcome. Parents were sent a questionnaire to obtain a subjective aesthetic assessment of outcome. Significantly less blood replacement was required (p = 0.003), and shorter duration of postoperative anaesthesia (p = 0.030) and postoperative hospital stay (p = 0.013) were found in the spring-mediated cranioplasty group. There were no complications or deaths in either group. Also significant was the inter-group difference in the postoperative change in the height ratio (p = 0.030), the most change being seen in the spring group. The change in the subjective parental aesthetic evaluation of skull shape was significant in both groups. In conclusion, the spring-mediated procedure was morphologically more effective than the modified pi-plasty procedure in the management of sagittal synostosis with the additional benefits of less blood transfusion needed and shorter duration of hospital stay.

Sagittal synostosis: II. Cranial morphology and growth after the modified pi-plasty

The aim of this study was to characterise the postoperative cranial growth and morphology after a modified pi-plasty for sagittal synostosis. The shape of the skull of 82 patients with isolated premature synostosis of the sagittal suture (SS group) operated on with a modified pi-plasty was studied longitudinally. Forty-five children with unilateral incomplete cleft lip (UICL), evaluated longitudinally at the ages of 2.4 and 23.2 months were used as controls. A standardised radiocephalometric technique was used for image acquisition. The radiocephalograms were analysed using a modification of a method developed by Kreiborg, which included the digitisation of 89 landmarks of the calvaria, cranial base, and orbit (43 in the lateral and 46 in the frontal projections), the production of mean shape plots for each group, and the intergroup comparison of a series of 78 variables (linear distance between selected landmarks, and angles defined by groups of three landmarks). Paired and unpaired t tests were used to assess the differences between the variables studied. These were accepted as significant for values of p<0.01 and were presented as coloured segments or areas in the respective plots. In a comparative analysis with the mean UICL lateral plots, the mean preoperative lateral plots of the study group (SS) showed that the anterior slope of the forehead was more pronounced and it was also more convex. The vertex area was located more anteriorly and was less convex. The occipital curvature was more prominent. Comparison of the mean frontal plots showed a deficiency in convexity and lateral projection of the upper parietal regions, and the line of maximum skull width was lower. The postoperative mean lateral plots of the study group showed a correction of the exaggerated anterior inclination of the forehead and a reduction of the abnormal occipital convexity. However, there was little change in the vertex region and it remained flatter than in the control group. In the mean frontal plots, the increase in convexity and in the lateral projection of the upper parietal areas led to a shape that was similar to that of the UICL group. The mean (SD) cephalic index changed from 64.9% (1.8%) to 71.4% (3.5%) (p<0.001). The longitudinal comparison between the mean postoperative plots at 3 and 5 years of age showed that there had been little change in cranial shape. In conclusion, after a modified pi-plasty for sagittal synostosis, significant objective changes in cranial shape towards normality were produced. The postoperative profile cranial shape was improved except in the vertex area, which remained flatter than normal. In the frontal projection an almost normal shape was obtained. The postoperative cranial shape obtained at 3 years of age had remained stable at the age of 5 years.

Calvarial remodelling for sagittal synostosis: does fibrin glue (Tisseel) reduce post-operative blood transfusion requirements?

INTRODUCTION

Calvarial remodelling for sagittal synostosis is extensive surgery and is associated with potential risks; the most significant of these is blood loss.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We studied 16 patients undergoing calvarial remodelling by the same surgical team over a 12-month period to determine whether scalp closure with fibrin glue (Tisseel) could decrease post-operative bleeding and the need for blood transfusion. In the last 5 months of the period studied, fibrin glue (Tisseel) was used and six out of the 16 patients had their wound closure assisted by this means. Data was prospectively collected on age at surgery, the estimated peri-operative blood loss, the volume of blood transfused intra-operatively, the volume drained in the first 8 h post-operatively, the total post-operative drainage and the volume of any post-operative blood transfusion required.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The two groups were comparable with a similar mean age at surgery, estimated peri-operative blood loss and intra-operative blood transfusion requirements. The volume drained in the first 8 h post-operatively was 172 ml in the treated group compared to 246 ml in the untreated group (p < 0.02) and the total post-operative drain volume was 301 ml compared to 441 ml (p < 0.01). None out of the six patients treated with fibrin glue required post-operative transfusion compared to two out of ten in the untreated group. The use of fibrin glue has enabled us to reduce post-operative bleeding and the need for post-operative blood transfusion.

Effectiveness of a limited invasive scalp approach in the correction of sagittal craniosynostosis

BACKGROUND

Several surgical techniques have been proposed for the correction of sagittal craniosynostosis. Extensive procedures seem to ensure the most stable long-term results and are more indicated in the older age group. Mini-invasive approaches are particularly useful in the very young infant as they are associated with a minor surgical risk. Furthermore, they are weighted by a minor cosmetic impact related to a less extended surgical scar.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data of the last 94 consecutively operated on scaphocephalic patients have been reviewed to verify the effectiveness of a personal limited-invasive approach based on four to six short linear scalp incisions vs the traditional bicoronal skin flap. The patients have been divided in two groups: (1) the control group (2000-2002): 45 children, operated on by means of a traditional bicoronal skin incision, and (2) the study group (2002-2004): 49 children, treated through four to six linear scalp incisions. The patients' variables were comparable. The results were evaluated in terms of duration of the surgical procedure, estimated blood loss (EBL), transfusion risk, postoperative complication rate, length of hospital stay, and postoperative cephalic index and cosmetic outcome as perceived by the patients' families.

RESULTS

No significant differences between the two groups were found about the early and the long-term surgical results; however, about one third of the subjects of the control group complained about the visibility of the surgical scar. In the study group, a significant reduction in the duration of the operation (p < 0.0001), postoperative hospital stay (p < 0.0001), EBL (p = 0.011), transfusion risk (p = 0.018), and complication rate (p = 0.016) was observed.

CONCLUSION

The current trend in the management of scaphocephaly is to favor simplified surgical procedures to be performed in the younger ages prevalently. The technique here presented allows achieving a stable long-term cranial reshaping, even when performed in the very young patient. The technique can be utilized also in older subjects with results comparable to those of more extensive surgical procedures. This less invasive technique is weighted by minor complication rates and minor impact of the surgical scar.

Sagittal synostosis: A review of 53 cases of sagittal suturectomy in one unit

The role of sagittal suturectomy in the treatment of scaphocephaly remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to report the experience of the National Craniofacial Unit in Dublin. This unit is the referral centre for the Republic of Ireland and serves a population of approximately 3.5 million. Quantitative assessments were made using radiographs and the pre- and postoperative cephalic index (CI) was calculated. Patients were asked to score their head shapes in a questionnaire. The mean age at surgery for the 53 children was 4.9 months with a mean follow up of 8 years. Pre- and postoperative radiographs were available for analysis in 24 patients. The mean preoperative CI was 65.3. There was a statistically significant increase in the CI postoperatively to 73.7. Seventy five per cent of children achieved a 'normal' CI and 86% scored their head shapes as good to excellent. There was no correlation between the age at surgery and the CI achieved. Although only one child was not happy with the shape of the head, the impression was that the CI correlated poorly with the clinical assessment of the head shape. There were no significant complications. We therefore conclude that the sagittal suturectomy is a safe procedure that has a limited but definite potential to improve the CI. This procedure still has a place in the surgical repertoire of the craniofacial surgeon dealing with scaphocephaly.

Identifying reproducible patterns of calvarial dysmorphology in nonsyndromic sagittal craniosynostosis may affect operative intervention and outcomes assessment

BACKGROUND

The authors tested the premise that there are four distinctive patterns of calvarial dysmorphology in nonsyndromic sagittal craniosynostosis that can be reproducibly recognized.

METHODS

Twenty-nine computed tomographic scan data sets of infants met the following criteria: nonsyndromic sagittal craniosynostosis, age younger than 12 months, and satisfactory computed tomographic data. Osseous reformations were constructed in the anteroposterior, right lateral, and vertex projections for each patient. From these images, four templates--coronal constriction, occipital protuberance, bifrontal bossing, and bitemporal protrusion--were selected as prototypes of the specific dysmorphologies the authors observed in patients with sagittal craniosynostosis. Four residents assigned the 29 calvarial image sets to one of the four templates or, if they were unable to do so, to the group "other." The sortings were then assessed for clustering. The same patient computed tomographic data were reformatted with osseous color images, which were then sorted according to template group by eight senior craniofacial surgeons, who repeated the task approximately 3 months later. The repeatability and assessment of clustering of image sets using the templates was evaluated.

RESULTS

In the residents' pilot study, 41 percent (12 of 29) of patients had 100 percent concordance rates, 31 percent (nine of 29) had 75 percent concordance, 24 percent (seven of 29) had 50 percent, and 3 percent (one of 29) had 25 percent concordance. In summary, greater than 70 percent of the patient image sets could be sorted with at least 75 percent concordance by residents. In the senior surgeons' study, 90 percent of patients could be identified as falling into two of five possible groups. Senior raters demonstrated nearly 70 percent repeatability between sortings.

CONCLUSION

These findings support the hypothesis that there are identifiable and reproducible patterns of varying calvarial dysmorphology in patients with sagittal craniosynostosis.

Quantitative and qualitative assessment of morphology in sagittal synostosis: mid-sagittal vector analysis

Consensus remains lacking regarding the optimal surgical treatment modality for sagittal synostosis. There is, however, wide agreement that objective analytical methods are required to demonstrate the characteristic morphology of the condition and to substantiate the benefits of specified surgical techniques. Simple calculated anthropomorphic indices, such as the cranial index, are commonly used but fail to provide satisfactory representation of morphology, which is far more complex than can be represented by its simple length-width ratio. Techniques to provide more comprehensive, yet practical, assessment of morphology are needed for analytic purposes. Herein, we introduce vector analysis as an objective, computed tomography (CT)-based morphometric technique for assessment of cranial morphology; this work represents the first application of the technique mid-sagittal vector analysis (MSVA). MSVA is a single plane application that was devised to address dysmorphology in sagittal synostosis. It was our hypothesis that MSVA would quantitatively and qualitatively depict preoperative morphology and postoperative correction in specific regions. Sixteen patients undergoing cranial reshaping surgery for sagittal synostosis were included in the study. All patients underwent routine preoperative and 1 year postoperative CT scans, from which the MSVA was derived. MSVA is a radial vector analysis in which distances to the cranial surface are measured from a single reference point origin in the sagittal plane. Preoperative morphology, characterized by respective vectors, was analyzed in three regions: the frontal, vertex, and occipital regions. Comparison with postoperative paired data was conducted for each patient. The analysis of postoperative change demonstrated (1) decrease in prominence in the frontal and occipital regions, (2) increase in height and forward translation of the vertex, and (3) ability to distinguish and qualify frontal versus occipital bossing and correction thereof. We conclude that the longitudinal differences associated with scaphocephaly are well characterized and differentiated by MSVA. Quantitative and qualitative assessment identifies three relevant regions affected by the condition and its treatment: the frontal, vertex, and occipital regions. The transverse dimension is not addressed in this single plane analysis; a more comprehensive application will require additional planes of analysis and the development of a normative database.

Diagnostic imaging in the management of craniosynostoses

Craniosynostoses are the most frequent craniofacial malformations. However, with a prevalence of 3-6 cases per 10,000 live births they are amongst the rarely seen diseases and their definite diagnosis thus poses a challenge to the physician. When an abnormal calvarial configuration is detected, a radiological evaluation is necessary to characterize the deformity and to guide the corrective surgical procedure. The demand for clear diagnostic criteria is justified by the severity of the disease and the possible consequences of delayed diagnosis. In addition to the clinical signs (deformation of the head), conventional skull X-rays show typical radiological alterations and are used for basic diagnostics. Diagnostic tests that may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the problem, include computed tomography (CT), 3D-CT, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and ultrasonography. In the present review we will describe the most important clinical and radiological characteristics of craniosynostosis by means of clinical, radiological and operative situs examples.

Long-term anthropometric outcomes following surgery for isolated sagittal craniosynostosis

OBJECT

A number of studies have shown good short-term cosmetic outcomes following surgery for isolated sagittal craniosynostosis. Whether the improvement in head shape persists in the longer- term is less clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term anthropometric outcomes following surgery for isolated sagittal craniosynostosis.

METHODS

Records were retrospectively reviewed for children with isolated sagittal synostosis who underwent surgical revision between 1987 and 2000. Only children who underwent surgery before 8 months of age and for whom serial anthropometric data (skull width, skull length, and cephalic index) were available were included in the study. The operative procedure consisted of vertex and parietal craniectomies involving removal of the sagittal suture and a 1.5- to 2.5-cm piece of adjacent parietal bone on each side as well as bilateral parietal barrel-stave osteotomies. Ninety cases satisfied the eligibility criteria. The mean age of the patients at surgery was 5 months (range 1.9-7.5 months). The mean preoperative cephalic index was 66.78. The follow-up period ranged from 1.8 to 167 months (mean 39.6 months). In 24 cases, the follow-up period was longer than 36 months. Eighteen (75%) and five (20.8%) of these 24 cases were followed up for longer than 5 and 10 years, respectively. The mean increase in cephalic index at the last follow up was 8.69% (p < 0.0001). The maximum improvement in the cephalic index occurred within 6 months of surgery, at which point it had improved by a mean of 11.1% (p < 0.0001). The cephalic index remained increased throughout the follow-up period, with a mean change of -1.84% (standard deviation, 4.28%; 99% confidence interval -3.33 to -0.37%) from the first postoperative to the final measurement.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery for isolated sagittal craniosynostosis leads to a significant improvement in the cephalic index, which is most marked in the early postoperative period. Improvement in the cephalic index is still present after prolonged follow up.

New scaphocephaly severity indices of sagittal craniosynostosis: a comparative study with cranial index quantifications

OBJECTIVE

To describe a novel set of scaphocephaly severity indices (SSIs) for predicting and quantifying head- and skull-shape deformity in children diagnosed with isolated sagittal synostosis (ISS) and compare their sensitivity and specificity with those of the traditional cranial index (CI).

METHODS

Computed tomography head scans were obtained from 60 patients diagnosed with ISS and 41 age-matched control patients. Volumetric reformations of the skull and overlying skin were used to trace two-dimensional planes defined in terms of skull-base plane and internal or surface landmarks. For each patient, novel SSIs were computed as the ratio of head width and length as measured on each of these planes. A traditional CI was also calculated and a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was applied to compare the sensitivity and specificity of the proposed indices with those of CI.

RESULTS

Although the CI is a sensitive measure of scaphocephaly, it is not specific and therefore not a suitable predictor of ISS in many practical applications. The SSI-A provides a specificity of 95% at a sensitivity level of 98%, in contrast with the 68% of CI. On average, the sensitivity and specificity of all proposed indices are superior to those of CI.

CONCLUSIONS

Measurements of cranial width and length derived from planes that are defined in terms of internal or surface landmarks and skull-base plane produce SSIs that outperform traditional CI measurements.

Étude des variations morphologiques des scaphocéphalies. Implication pour leur systématisation

PURPOSE

The scaphocephaly is the most frequent craniosynostosis secondary to a premature synostosis of the sagittal suture. Despite this univocal pathogeny there are a great heterogeneity in the skull deformation and their systematisation stay imprecise. The aim of this study was to analyse the different morphology of the scaphocephaly by 3D CT-scan to clarify the different shapes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective study was done from the morphometric analysis of forty-two 3D CT-scan (10 girls and 32 boys). The scaphocephaly was classified in two groups according to the systematisation of Stricker and Montaut: the sphenocephaly (large forehead) and the leptocephaly (narrow forehead). The variation of the calvaria shape was analysed and different index were calculated.

RESULTS

There were 30 sphenocephaly and 12 leptocephaly. Excepted for the forehead deformation there was a morphometric difference of the occipital pole that was backward rotated in the leptocephaly. In the two groups there were retro-coronal constriction (40.5%) or pre-lambdoid constriction (9.5%) independently of the sagittal synostosis degree.

CONCLUSIONS

The morphometric analysis shows that the deformation of the skull secondary to the premature synostosis of the sagittal suture can be different. The adaptative defect of the metopic suture can be to explain this difference. This deformation can be harmonious, or with a retro-coronal constriction resulting in a bitemporal narrowing, or with a pre-lambdoid constriction resulting in an occipital chignon. These results conduce to qualify the surgical correction to adapt at the different shapes.

Relationship of brain and skull in pre- and postoperative sagittal synostosis

Models of vertebrate skull evolution stress the coordinated developmental relationship between the skull and the brain that it houses. This study investigates the relationship between altered skull morphology and brain morphology in premature fusion of the cranial sagittal suture (isolated sagittal synostosis; ISS), a condition associated with dysmorphology of both neurocranium and brain. Although the skull displays a more normal shape following reconstructive cranial vault surgery, effects of this surgery on the brain have not been investigated. Landmark coordinate data were collected from three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging reconstructions of the brain in a sample of ISS patients and an age-matched unaffected cohort. These data were analysed using Euclidean distance matrix analysis (EDMA). Results show that the brain in ISS is dysmorphic preoperatively, displaying a posteriorly directed neural expansion that does not 'worsen' with growth. Postoperatively, the brain in ISS displays a more globular shape overall as compared with the preoperative morphology, but differs from normal in its subcortical morphology. These results show that the ISS brain is altered following neurocranial surgery, but does not more closely approximate that of unaffected individuals. This suggests that although the brain is affected by manipulation of the skull, it retains a growth pattern that is, at least in part, independent of the skull.

Pre- and postoperative developmental attainment in sagittal synostosis

AIMS

To investigate whether sagittal synostosis (SS) has consequences for children's mental and psychomotor development, and whether surgery has any impact on this.

METHODS

The study involved 28 children with SS who underwent corrective surgery at a mean age of 8.0 (SD 7.16) months, and 28 normal controls. All the children with SS were assessed pre- and postoperatively using the Griffiths Mental Development Scales. The controls were assessed on one occasion, at an age matched with individuals in the patient group at the time of the preoperative assessment. A further control group consisted of 13 children with SS, who had received developmental assessment on two or more occasions without surgical intervention.

RESULTS

The data indicated that children with SS have significantly poorer gross locomotor function than the normal controls. Following surgical intervention the deficit was shown to have resolved; consistent with this a lesser improvement in eye-hand coordination and performance skills was shown. Overall developmental attainment also improved postoperatively. The children with SS who did not receive surgery did not show any improvement in development.

CONCLUSIONS

The study shows improved developmental attainment following surgical correction of SS, which may therefore be more than a cosmetic procedure.

Thrombophilia and first arterial ischaemic stroke: a systematic review

AIMS

To undertake a systematic review of the literature reporting the prevalence of thrombophilia in children with a first arterial ischaemic stroke (AIS).

METHODS

Systematic review of case-control studies reporting data for prevalence of protein C, S, and antithrombin (AT) deficiencies, activated protein C resistance (APCr), total plasma homocysteine >95th centile, the thrombophilic mutations factor V1691 GA, prothrombin 20210GA, and MTHFR C677T in children with first, radiologically confirmed, AIS.

RESULTS

Of 1437 potentially relevant citations, 18 met inclusion criteria. A total of 3235 patients and 9019 controls had been studied. Results of meta-analyses were expressed as pooled odds ratios (OR) relating the prevalence of the thrombophilic condition in children with AIS to that in controls. The pooled OR (and 95% CI) were: protein C deficiency, 6.49 (2.96 to 14.27); protein S deficiency, 1.14 (0.34 to 3.80); AT deficiency, 1.02 (0.28 to 3.67); APCr, 1.34 (0.16 to 11.52); FV1691 GA, 1.22 (0.80 to 1.87); PT20210GA, 1.10 (0.51 to 2.34); MTHFR C677T, 1.70 (1.23 to 2.34); and total plasma homocysteine >95th centile, 1.36 (0.53 to 3.51). There was no statistical heterogeneity within these data.

CONCLUSIONS

All factors examined were more common in children with first AIS than in controls, and significantly so for protein C deficiency and the MTHFR C677T mutation. The implications of thrombophilia for prognosis and recurrence need to be established before clinical recommendations can be made regarding investigation and treatment of children with AIS.