Lambdoid synostosis and occipital plagiocephaly: clinical decision rules for surgical intervention

Abstract

Lambdoid craniosynostosis has been regarded as one of the least common categories of premature fusion of the cranial sutures, yet reports have suggested the incidence may be increasing. To guide treatment decisions, the authors describe a set of rules based on radiographic indicators and clinical assessment in the child. Experience suggests that children can have abnormal-appearing cranial sutures with normal neurological status and normal-appearing sutures with neurological deficits or marked cerebral compression. Early evaluation and follow-up treatment is essential for children with suspected craniosynostosis.