[Diagnosis and treatment of craniosynostoses: the usefulness of CT combined with 3-dimensional reconstruction].

Craniosynostoses are craniocerebral and craniofacial dysmorphic states, characterized by early closure of one or more cranial sutures. In this pathology the perpendicular growth of the bone to the involved suture is disturbed (Virchow's theory). Craniosynostoses can be divided into: 1) single-suture synostoses (scaphocephaly, plagiocephaly, trigonocephaly), 2) multiple-suture synostoses (brachycephaly, oxycephaly) and 3) craniofacial dysostoses. From 1976 to 1987, 63 children with craniosynostosis were studied in our Institute. All patients underwent radiologic and neuroradiologic research with CT scans both before and after surgery; in the past year three-dimensional reconstructions of CT images were also employed. Major advantages of 3-DCT have been obtained in craniofacial malformations. In fact, this technique helps reduce surgical risks and allows the surgeon to evaluate partial results and to make eventual corrections in the last phase. The processing of images is useful to simulate the operation, thus allowing the surgeon to take the best therapeutic choice by computer. This technique is especially useful for postoperative follow-up. In craniosynostoses, early surgical treatment (within the first 6-8 months of life) is necessary in order to obtain excellent functional and cosmetic results.