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Pogliani LM, Zuccotti GV, Reggiori M, Erbetta A, Lacerenza M, Prada F, Furlanetto M, Vetrano IG, Valentini LG. Surface Cranial Ultrasound: The Natural Heir to X-Ray for the Screening of Skull Deformities in Infants. ULTRASCHALL IN DER MEDIZIN (STUTTGART, GERMANY : 1980) 2023; 44:503-511. [PMID: 35760078 DOI: 10.1055/a-1820-8101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Volumetric tomography (3D-CT) is currently considered the gold standard for the diagnosis of craniosynostosis, but its use as the first-line examination for cranial deformities is a topic of debate, because of skull X-ray radiation and low sensitivity and specificity. Cranial ultrasound is an emerging noninvasive radiation-free alternative, but its diagnostic accuracy still needs confirmation. MATERIALS AND METHODS The present prospective study included 350 infants with skull deformities, who underwent cranial ultrasound as the first-line examination, followed by 3D-CT if the echography results was positive or unclear. If the results were negative, infants underwent physical treatment and follow-up. To evaluate ultrasound reliability, we focused on cases that underwent both the index test and the gold standard and performed a double-blind comparison of the echography and 3D-CT results. RESULTS Ultrasound documented patent sutures in 293 infants and 9 had inconclusive results. The 293 ultrasound-negative infants were followed clinically: all improved, except 28 that underwent 3D-CT. In all of these cases, 3D-CT confirmed the ultrasonography results (no false negatives). 48 infants showed premature suture closure and underwent 3D-CT: 47 were confirmed (true positive), 1 was false positive. The sensitivity was 100%, the specificity was 99.7%, the positive and negative predictive values were 97.9% and 100%, respectively, the accuracy was 99.7%, and the diagnostic test evaluation was conclusive. CONCLUSION The study documented the high sensitivity and specificity of echography for the diagnosis of craniosynostosis in a referral center, with better results being achieved before 6 months of age. Major limitations are the loss of diagnostic significance as the child grows and the learning curve needed. The advantages are avoidance of radiation and chance to evaluate the brain at the same time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gian Vincenzo Zuccotti
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Pediatrics, Ospedale Luigi Sacco-Polo Universitario, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Erbetta
- Neuroradiology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Prada
- Neurosurgical Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
- Neurological Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, United States
| | - Marika Furlanetto
- Neurosurgical Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Laura Grazia Valentini
- Neurosurgical Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
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Sertorio F, Pacetti M, Schiaffino S, Secci F, Cama A, Consales A, Magnano GM. Ultrasonography as first line imaging for the diagnosis of positional plagiocephaly. Minerva Pediatr (Torino) 2023; 75:557-560. [PMID: 30916518 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5276.19.05424-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last years, numerous studies evaluated different tools for the diagnosis of positional plagiocephaly (PP). The purpose of this study was to evaluate ultrasonography (US) as a first line screening test of lambdoid sutural patency in child with PP and to compare our results with the literature. METHODS All consecutive patients who referred to our Institute from January 2016 to October 2017 with the suspicion of PP, were included in the study and performed US examination of the lambdoid sutures. A 3-6-month clinical follow-up was performed by a pediatric neurosurgeon or a pediatrician to confirm the diagnosis of PP. RESULTS Thirty-five children performed US examination and in all cases the diagnosis of PP was confirmed. No cases of anticipated suture fusion were examined during this period. The concordance between US findings and clinical exam follow-up was 100%. CONCLUSIONS Ultrasonography of the lambdoid sutures represents an ideal first-line screening test and reliable alternative to other diagnostic techniques for lambdoid sutural patency in child with PP, being radiation free, fast and cheap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiammetta Sertorio
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy -
- Department of Radiology, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy -
| | - Mattia Pacetti
- Department of Neurosurgery, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Secci
- Department of Neurosurgery, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Armando Cama
- Department of Neurosurgery, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Gian M Magnano
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
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Eley KA, Delso G. Imaging of Bone in the Head and Neck Region, is There More Than CT? CURRENT RADIOLOGY REPORTS 2022; 10:69-82. [PMID: 35463479 PMCID: PMC9013214 DOI: 10.1007/s40134-022-00396-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The objective of this review is to document the advances in non-ionising imaging alternatives to CT for the head and neck. Recent Findings The main alternative to CT for imaging bone of the head and neck region is MRI, particularly techniques which incorporate gradient echo imaging (Black Bone technique) and ultra-short or zero-echo time imaging. Since these techniques can provide high resolution isometric voxels, they can be used to provide multi-planar reformats and, following post processing, 3D reconstructed images of the craniofacial skeleton. As expected, the greatest advancements in recent years have been focused on enhanced image processing techniques and attempts to address the difficulties encountered at air-bone interfaces. Summary This article will review the imaging techniques and recent advancements which are bringing non-ionising alternatives to CT imaging of the bone of the head and neck region into the realm of routine clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen A. Eley
- Department of Radiology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Box 218, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ UK
| | - Gaspar Delso
- MR Applications & Workflow, GE Healthcare, Barcelona, Spain
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Shcherbakov AV, Danilin VE, Letyagin GV, Kim SA, Lebedinsky VG, Andrushkevich OM. [Cranial suture ultrasound for reducing radiation exposure in diagnosis of craniosynostosis in young children]. ZHURNAL VOPROSY NEIROKHIRURGII IMENI N. N. BURDENKO 2022; 86:64-70. [PMID: 35412714 DOI: 10.17116/neiro20228602164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Currently, there are no standards for examining patients with suspected craniosynostosis. CT of the brain with 3D skull reconstruction is a common approach to diagnose craniosynostosis in many hospitals. This technique in pediatric patients is associated with a high dose of ionizing radiation and prompts searching for other diagnostic methods. OBJECTIVE To generalize an experience of cranial suture ultrasound and compare diagnostic capabilities of various ultrasound devices. MATERIAL AND METHODS We retrospectively analyzed data of cranial suture ultrasound in 49 patients under the age of 14 months with a suspected craniosynostosis. All patients underwent expert-class ultrasound. Of these, 10 patients underwent middle-class ultrasound. Age of these patients ranged from 2 to 10 months. RESULTS According to ultrasound data, we have found 48 synostotic sutures in 42 patients. There were 2 inaccurate results among these 48 sutures. In both cases, expert-class ultrasound confirmed partial closure of cranial sutures while 3D CT revealed their complete closure. Sensitivity and specificity of technique were 95.8% and 100%, respectively. Both expert- and middle-class ultrasound revealed synostotic sutures in 10 children under 1 year old. CONCLUSION Our data have shown that ultrasound of cranial sutures may be a first-line imaging technique. This method has high sensitivity and specificity in pediatric patients. Moreover, middle-class ultrasound devices may be used for diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - V E Danilin
- Federal Neurosurgical Center, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - G V Letyagin
- Federal Neurosurgical Center, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - S A Kim
- Federal Neurosurgical Center, Novosibirsk, Russia
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Whittall I, Lambert WA, Moote DJ, Bookland MJ, Martin JE, Hughes CD, Hersh DS. Postnatal diagnosis of single-suture craniosynostosis with cranial ultrasound: a systematic review. Childs Nerv Syst 2021; 37:3705-3714. [PMID: 34611761 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-021-05301-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The optimal protocol for diagnostic workup of craniosynostosis and the role of specific imaging modalities remain controversial. Skull X-rays and 3-dimensional head CTs are options when physical exam is equivocal but involve ionizing radiation. Ultrasound has emerged as an alternative modality for visualization of cranial sutures, but its use is not widespread. METHODS The authors performed a systematic review of the literature on the use of ultrasound for the diagnosis of craniosynostosis. RESULTS A total of 12 studies involving 1062 patients were included. Overall, 300 patients (28.2%) were diagnosed with craniosynostosis. A total of 369 (34.7%) patients had their diagnosis (craniosynostosis vs. patent sutures) confirmed with another imaging modality in addition to ultrasound. Among studies, the specificity of ultrasound ranged from 86 to 100%, and the sensitivity from 71 to 100%. CONCLUSIONS Ultrasonography of cranial sutures is a feasible and accurate tool for the diagnosis of single-suture craniosynostosis when physical exam findings are insufficient. Although technical aspects of ultrasonography and its interpretation have an associated learning curve, ultrasound can achieve high sensitivity and specificity among patients with suspected craniosynostosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Douglas J Moote
- Division of Radiology, Connecticut Children's, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Markus J Bookland
- Division of Neurosurgery, Connecticut Children's, Hartford, CT, USA.,Department of Surgery, UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Jonathan E Martin
- Division of Neurosurgery, Connecticut Children's, Hartford, CT, USA.,Department of Surgery, UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Christopher D Hughes
- Department of Surgery, UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.,Division of Plastic Surgery, Connecticut Children's, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - David S Hersh
- Division of Neurosurgery, Connecticut Children's, Hartford, CT, USA. .,Department of Surgery, UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.
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Clinical Practice Patterns in Nonsyndromic Craniosynostosis: A Review of Continuous Certification Tracer Data From the American Board of Plastic Surgery. J Craniofac Surg 2021; 32:2029-2034. [PMID: 33654035 DOI: 10.1097/scs.0000000000007592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Sutures ultrasound: useful diagnostic screening for posterior plagiocephaly. Childs Nerv Syst 2021; 37:3715-3720. [PMID: 34453581 PMCID: PMC8604816 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-021-05324-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Posterior plagiocephaly (PP) is a common clinical condition in pediatric age. There are two main causes of PP: postural plagiocephaly and craniosynostosis. Early diagnosis is important, as it prevents neurological complications and emergencies. Diagnosis in the past was often made late and with imaging tests that subjected the infant to a high radiation load. Suture ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation; it is easy to perform, allows an early diagnosis, and directs toward the execution of the cranial 3D-CT scan, neurosurgical consultation, and possible intervention. The aim of the study is to describe the high sensitivity and specificity of suture ultrasound for the differential diagnosis between plagiocephaly and craniosynostosis. METHODS We reported our prospective experience and compared it with the data in the literature through a systematic review. The systematic review was conducted on electronic medical databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science) evaluating the published literature up to November 2020. According to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-ANALYSES (PRISMA statement), we identified 2 eligible studies. Additionally, according to AMSTAR 2, all included reviews have been critically rated as high quality. A total of 120 infants with abnormal skull shape were examined in NICU. All underwent clinical and ultrasound examination. RESULTS Of the total, 105 (87.5%) had plagiocephaly and 15 dolichocephaly/scaphocephaly (12.5%). None of these had associated other types of malformations and/or neurological disorders. The synostotic suture was identified ultrasonographically in 1 infant and subsequently confirmed by 3D CT scan (100%). CONCLUSION Cranial sutures ultrasonography can be considered in infants a selective, excellent screening method for the evaluation of skull shape deformities as first technique before the 3D CT scan exam and subsequent neurosurgical evaluation. Cranial suture ultrasonography should be considered part of clinical practice especially for pediatricians.
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Abstract
Non-synostotic plagiocephaly consists in an asymmetry of the skull due to mechanical forces applied in utero or postnatally: main differential diagnosis is with true synostotic asymmetry, which is caused by the premature closure of a suture. The correction of positional forms is mostly conservative, with 3 main strategies: counterpositioning, physiotherapy and helmet therapy. There is no synthesized evidence on which is the most effective. The Authors evaluate the modification of antropometric measurments before and after a pediatric physical therapy program in a sample of patients with non-synostotic skull asymmetry, in order to evaluate the improvements in the skull shape. The hypothesis being tested was that physical therapy alone could improve the antropometric measurments. The authors enrolled in this study 24 patients diagnosed of non-synostotic asymmetry, clinically and with ultrasound, referred to the Maxillo-facial Unit of Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, within 2013 and 2016. A standardized pediatric physical therapy intervention program was designed: it consisted in a combination of excercises and manipulative procedures to reduce positional preference, musculoskeletal disorders and cranial deformity. Infants received 16 sessions of physical therapy, of 40 minutes each, once a week, for four months. The Authors evaluate the variation of four anthropometric measurments, performed before and after the physical therapy program: Argenta scale, Oblique Diameter Difference Index (ODDI), Cranial Proportional Index (CPI) or Cephalic Ratio (CR), Cranial Vault Asymmetry Index (CVAI). Craniometric evaluations were extrapolated by standardized 2D digital photographs of frontal, sagittal and transverse planes, by the same physician to minimize bias. The management of positional cranial deformities is still controversially discussed and especially the effects of physiotherapy and osteopathy have been only marginally researched. Statistical analysis revealed the effectiveness of the protocol: all anthropometric measurements improved with a high rate, major in youngest children (P < 0.5) and in more severe first presentations (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). The results suggest manipulative approach may improve the outcome in the long term follow up of cranial asymmetries.
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How ultrasonography can contribute to diagnosis of craniosynostosis. Neurochirurgie 2019; 65:228-231. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuchi.2019.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Massimi L, Bianchi F, Frassanito P, Calandrelli R, Tamburrini G, Caldarelli M. Imaging in craniosynostosis: when and what? Childs Nerv Syst 2019; 35:2055-2069. [PMID: 31289853 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-019-04278-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Currently, the interest on craniosynostosis in the clinical practice is raised by their increased frequency and their genetic implications other than by the still existing search of less invasive surgical techniques. These reasons, together with the problem of legal issues, make the need of a definite diagnosis for a crucial problem, even in single-suture craniosynostosis (SSC). Although the diagnosis of craniosynostosis is primarily the result of physical examination, craniometrics measuring, and observation of the skull deformity, the radiological assessment currently plays an important role in the confirmation of the diagnosis, the surgical planning, and even the postoperative follow-up. On the other hand, in infants, the use of radiation or the need of sedation/anesthesia raises the problem to reduce them to minimum to preserve such a delicate category of patient from their adverse effects. METHODS, RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS This review aims at summarizing the state of the art of the role of radiology in craniosynostosis, mainly focusing on indications and techniques, to provide an update not only to pediatric neurosurgeons or maxillofacial surgeons but also to all the other specialists involved in their management, like neonatologists, pediatricians, clinical geneticists, and pediatric neurologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Massimi
- Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli IRCCS, Neurochirurgia Infantile, Rome, Italy.
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Istituto Neurochirurgia, Rome, Italy.
| | - F Bianchi
- Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli IRCCS, Neurochirurgia Infantile, Rome, Italy
| | - P Frassanito
- Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli IRCCS, Neurochirurgia Infantile, Rome, Italy
| | - R Calandrelli
- Polo scienze delle immagini, di laboratorio ed infettivologiche, Area diagnostica per immagini, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - G Tamburrini
- Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli IRCCS, Neurochirurgia Infantile, Rome, Italy
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Istituto Neurochirurgia, Rome, Italy
| | - M Caldarelli
- Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli IRCCS, Neurochirurgia Infantile, Rome, Italy
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Istituto Neurochirurgia, Rome, Italy
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Current Trends in Management of Nonsyndromic Unilateral Coronal Craniosynostosis: A Cross-sectional Survey. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2019; 7:e2229. [PMID: 31333956 PMCID: PMC6571315 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000002229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Although the natural history of nonsyndromic unilateral coronal craniosynostosis has been extensively described, optimal management remains controversial due to lack of Level 1 evidence. This study aims to assess the current state of practice among craniofacial surgeons. Methods Ninety-four craniofacial surgeons were approached to complete a survey consisting of 15 questions. Data were collected assessing surgeons' primary surgical indication, timing of intervention, preoperative imaging, and choice of technique for patients presenting with nonsyndromic unilateral coronal craniosynostosis. Choice of technique and timing of intervention in case of recurrence were also investigated. Results After 5 mailings, the response rate was 61%. The combination of both appearance and raised intracranial pressure was the primary indication for treatment for 73.2% of surgeons. Preoperative CT scan of the skull was "always" performed by 70.1% of respondents. Open surgical management was most commonly performed at 8-10 months of age (38.6%). Bilateral frontal craniectomy with remodeling of the supraorbital bandeau and frontal bone was the most common choice of procedure (84.2%). In case of mild to moderate and moderate to severe recurrences at 1 year of age, 89.5% and 47.4% of surgeons opted for conservative management, respectively. Optimal timing for repeat cranioplasty was after 4 years of age (65.5%). Overall, 43.4% quoted lack of evidence as the greatest obstacle to clinical decision-making when dealing with unilateral synostosis. Conclusion This survey exposes the lack of consensus and the disparity of opinion among craniofacial surgeons regarding the management of nonsyndromic coronal synostosis, particularly in the setting of recurrence.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND There is currently no consensus on the utility of preoperative computed tomography (CT) in nonsyndromic craniosynostosis. This systematic review and meta-analysis examines the evidence available on the necessity of preoperative CT for the treatment of nonsyndromic craniosynostosis. METHODS A comprehensive literature review of the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) database was performed. The following variables were analyzed: concordance of findings between clinical examinations and CT, incidental findings reported on imaging, and the effect of imaging on subsequent management. Concordance between clinical examination/CT and the presence of incidental findings were collected and displayed as descriptive data. The effect of imaging on subsequent diagnosis/management was analyzed by meta-analysis. RESULTS Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria for a total of 728 patients. Overall, physical examination concordance with CT diagnosis was 97.9% (371/379). Overall, incidental findings led to additional imaging/workup in 1.79% of cases (5/278). The results of the meta-analysis revealed that, in the absence of alternative imaging modalities, CT scans significantly altered diagnosis or led to additional investigations in 12 cases (4.8%, 95% confidence interval = 3%-8%). Preoperative CT scans led to additional investigations in 5 cases and detected incomplete/wrong diagnoses in 7 cases. CONCLUSIONS The results of the present meta-analysis support the use of preoperative CT scans for nonsyndromic craniosynostosis in the absence of alternative imaging modalities. The results also suggest that in properly selected patients, alternative imaging modalities may be appropriate, potentially obviating the need for CT scans.
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Pogliani L, Zuccotti GV, Furlanetto M, Giudici V, Erbetta A, Chiapparini L, Valentini L. Cranial ultrasound is a reliable first step imaging in children with suspected craniosynostosis. Childs Nerv Syst 2017; 33:1545-1552. [PMID: 28578511 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-017-3449-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Skull radiography (SR) and Computed Tomography (CT) are still proposed as the first-line imaging choice for the diagnosis of craniosynostosis (CS) in children with abnormal head shape, but both techniques expose infants to ionizing radiation. Several studies shown that ultrasound may play an important role in the diagnosis of craniosynostosis. The aim of our study is to assess the diagnostic accuracy of cranial ultrasound scan (CUS) and confirm if it is a reliable first step imaging evaluation for the diagnosis of craniosynostosis in newborn. METHOD A cohort of 196 infants (122/74 males/females), with a mean age of 4 months, clinically suspected to have abnormal closure of cranial sutures, were firstly examined by CUS and then referred to neuroradiologists to perform volumetric CT scan if the suspicion of stenosis was ecographically confirmed; otherwise, a routine follow-up and physical treatment was performed, to observe the evolution of the head shape. RESULTS Of the 196 children studied by CUS, only two had inconclusive studies due to age limitation (>12 months). Thirty children were diagnosed with cranial synostosis at CUS and verified by CT; all the CUS results were confirmed, except two cases, that were revealed as false positives in the starting phase of the study. Twelve patients with very prominent head deformity and negative CUS underwent CT, which confirmed the CUS results in all of them; one case of closure of both temporal sutures, not studied by CUS, was documented by CT. All the 148 children with poor clinical suspicion and negative CUS underwent just a prolonged clinical follow-up. In all of them, a progressive normalization of head shape was observed, and the craniosynostosis was excluded on a clinical base. CONCLUSIONS CUS is a highly specific and sensitive imaging technique. In referral centers, expert hands can use it as a reliable first-step screening for infants younger than 1 year, suspected to have a craniosynostosis, thus avoiding unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation. The "golden age" to obtain the best CUS results is under 6 months of life. Because the method is operator-dependent and there is a learning curve, a case centralization is advisable.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Pogliani
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Milan, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Via GB Grassi 74, Milan, Italy.
| | - G V Zuccotti
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Milan, Milan Children's Hospital V. Buzzi, Milan, Italy
| | - M Furlanetto
- Department of Neurosurgery C. Besta" Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - V Giudici
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Milan, Milan Children's Hospital V. Buzzi, Milan, Italy
| | - A Erbetta
- Service of Neuroradiology: "C. Besta" Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - L Chiapparini
- Service of Neuroradiology: "C. Besta" Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - L Valentini
- Department of Neurosurgery C. Besta" Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
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Proisy M, Riffaud L, Chouklati K, Tréguier C, Bruneau B. Ultrasonography for the diagnosis of craniosynostosis. Eur J Radiol 2017; 90:250-255. [PMID: 28583642 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2017.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2016] [Revised: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maïa Proisy
- CHU Rennes, Department of Radiology, Hôpital Sud, F-35203 Rennes, France; INSERM U1228 VisAGeS Unit, CNRS UMR 6074, Université de Rennes 1, F-35042 Rennes, France.
| | - Laurent Riffaud
- CHU Rennes, Department of Neurosurgery, CHU de Rennes, F-35033 Rennes, France
| | - Kamal Chouklati
- CHU Rennes, Department of Radiology, Hôpital Sud, F-35203 Rennes, France
| | - Catherine Tréguier
- CHU Rennes, Department of Radiology, Hôpital Sud, F-35203 Rennes, France
| | - Bertrand Bruneau
- CHU Rennes, Department of Radiology, Hôpital Sud, F-35203 Rennes, France
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[Guide to clinical practice for the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of non-syndromic craniosynostosis on 3 levels of care]. CIR CIR 2016; 85:401-410. [PMID: 28034516 DOI: 10.1016/j.circir.2016.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Craniosynostosis is a congenital anomaly resulting from the premature fusion of the cranial sutures changing growth patterns of the skull. METHODOLOGY Focus, scope, target population and clinical questions to be solved were defined. A systematic search for evidence in different databases (Medline, Embase, KoreaMed, Cochrane Library and the website of the World Health Organization) in stages was performed: clinical practice guidelines; systematic reviews, and clinical trials and observational studies; using MeSH, Decs and corresponding free terms, unrestricted language or temporality. Risk of bias was evaluated using appropriate tools (AMSTAR, Risk of Bias or STROBE). The quality of evidence was graduated using the GRADE system. Modified Delphi Panel technique was used to assign the recommendation's strength and direction, as well as the degree of agreement with it, taking into account the quality of evidence, balance between risks and benefits of interventions, values and preferences of patients and availability of resources. RESULTS There were 3,712 documents obtained by search algorithms; selecting 29 documents for inclusion in the qualitative synthesis. Due to heterogeneity between studies, it was not possible to perform meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS We issued 7 recommendations and 8 good practice points, which will serve as support for decision-making in the comprehensive care of patients with craniosynostosis.
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Is Craniosynostosis Repair Keeping Up With the Times? Results From the Largest National Survey on Craniosynostosis. J Craniofac Surg 2016; 26:1909-13. [PMID: 26244471 DOI: 10.1097/scs.0000000000001300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the great variability in perioperative management of craniosynostosis, a large-scale national survey of current practice patterns was conducted. METHODS Using scaphocephaly as a test diagnosis, 115 craniofacial surgeons at all levels of career experience across the United States were invited to participate in an anonymous survey. RESULTS Fifty-three surgeons (46%) completed the survey. All respondents complete repair before 1 year of age with a majority operating between 4 and 8 months. Surgeons with greater than 10 years of experience were significantly more likely to perform open repair at extremes of age (<4 months and 8-12 months) (P = 0.03) and reported shorter operative times (P = 0.01) compared with their less experienced colleagues. More than two-thirds of surgeons (68.8%) obtain preoperative imaging for every case; 83% of these prefer computed tomography scans. More than one-fourth of respondents (28%) routinely prescribe an extended course (>24 hours) of antibiotics. Overall transfusion rates remain high, with nearly 2 (65.2%) in 3 transfusing in 76% to 100% of operations. The overwhelming majority of respondents (93.6%) routinely send patients to an intensive care unit postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS We present the largest US survey of craniosynostosis surgical practice patterns to date. General consensus exists regarding safety and emergency preparedness standards. In addition, we identified several patterns that deviate from published evidence-based guidelines. Specifically, these practices relate to the routine use of high-dose radiation imaging, long-term antibiotics, blood transfusions, and intensive postoperative surveillance. For the first time, stratifying by surgeon experience revealed significant differences in clinical practice.
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Rozovsky K, Udjus K, Wilson N, Barrowman NJ, Simanovsky N, Miller E. Cranial Ultrasound as a First-Line Imaging Examination for Craniosynostosis. Pediatrics 2016; 137:e20152230. [PMID: 26772661 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2015-2230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiography, typically the first-line imaging study for diagnosis of craniosynostosis, exposes infants to ionizing radiation. We aimed to compare the accuracy of cranial ultrasound (CUS) with radiography for the diagnosis or exclusion of craniosynostosis. METHODS Children aged 0 to 12 months who were assessed for craniosynostosis during 2011-2013 by using 4-view skull radiography and CUS of the sagittal, coronal, lambdoid, and metopic sutures were included in this prospective study. Institutional review board approval and parental informed consent were obtained. CUS and radiography were interpreted independently and blindly by 2 pediatric radiologists; conflicts were resolved in consensus. Sutures were characterized as closed, normal, or indeterminate. Correlation between CUS and radiography and interreader agreement were examined for each suture. RESULTS A total of 126 children (82 boys, 64.5%) ages 8 to 343 days were included. All sutures were normal on CUS and radiography in 115 patients (93.7%); craniosynostosis of 1 suture was detected in 8 (6.3%, 5 sagittal, 2 metopic, 1 coronal). In 3 cases the metopic suture was closed (n = 2) or indeterminate on CUS (n = 1) but normally closed on radiography. CUS sensitivity was 100%, specificity 98% (95% confidence interval 94%-100%). Reader agreement was 100% for sagittal, coronal, and lambdoid sutures (κ = 0.80); after consensus, disagreement remained on 3 metopic sutures. CONCLUSIONS In this series, CUS could be safely used as a first-line imaging tool in the investigation of craniosynostosis, reducing the need for radiographs in young children. Additional assessment may be required for accurate assessment of the metopic suture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katya Rozovsky
- Department of Medical Imaging, and Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | | | - Nicholas James Barrowman
- Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; and
| | - Natalia Simanovsky
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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Skull base development and craniosynostosis. Pediatr Radiol 2015; 45 Suppl 3:S485-96. [PMID: 26346154 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-015-3320-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2014] [Revised: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 02/15/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal skull shape resulting in craniofacial deformity is a relatively common clinical finding, with deformity either positional (positional plagiocephaly) or related to premature ossification and fusion of the skull sutures (craniosynostosis). Growth restriction occurring at a stenosed suture is associated with exaggerated growth at the open sutures, resulting in fairly predictable craniofacial phenotypes in single-suture non-syndromic pathologies. Multi-suture syndromic subtypes are not so easy to understand without imaging. Imaging is performed to define the site and extent of craniosynostosis, to determine the presence or absence of underlying brain anomalies, and to evaluate both pre- and postoperative complications of craniosynostosis. Evidence for intracranial hypertension may be seen both pre- and postoperatively, associated with jugular foraminal stenosis, sinovenous occlusion, hydrocephalus and Chiari 1 malformations. Following clinical assessment, imaging evaluation may include radiographs, high-frequency US of the involved sutures, low-dose (20-30 mAs) CT with three-dimensional reformatted images, MRI and nuclear medicine brain imaging. Anomalous or vigorous collateral venous drainage may be mapped preoperatively with CT or MR venography or catheter angiography.
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