Deformational brachycephaly is a condition that, while it may seem uncommon, affects about 1 in 10 children referred for treatment. It is characterized by a uniformly flattened back of the baby’s head, resulting in a broader and shorter head shape. This central flattening often leads to the forehead becoming prominent on both sides, and the height of the head may be excessively high. Remember, you are not alone in this journey.
Causes of Deformational Brachycephaly
Several factors can contribute to the development of deformational brachycephaly. However, many of these factors are preventable. For instance, the baby spending excessive time in carriers, often due to medical conditions such as gastric reflux, can be managed with proper guidance. Tummy time, a crucial preventive measure, encourages babies to move and develop strong neck muscles, preventing head flattening.
Another significant factor is the routine practice of placing babies on their backs to sleep, a position recommended to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). However, consistently sleeping on the back can cause the head to flatten uniformly, leading to a broader and shorter shape.
Identifying Deformational Brachycephaly
Parents and caregivers might notice signs of deformational brachycephaly as early as a few months old. Key indicators include:
A flat area on the back of the head
The head appears disproportionately wide.
Prominent forehead on both sides
Increased height of the head
It’s essential to differentiate between deformational brachycephaly and other cranial deformities, such as plagiocephaly, which involves asymmetrical flattening.
Asymmetrical Brachycephaly: A Common Variation
Asymmetrical brachycephaly, while a variation, is quite common. Based on scans sent to Orthomerica for STARband™ fabrication, it ranks second only to deformational plagiocephaly in incidence. This reassurance can help parents and caregivers feel less isolated and more supported.
Diagnosis and Assessment
Diagnosing deformational brachycephaly involves a thorough physical examination by a pediatrician or a specialist. The healthcare provider will assess the shape and symmetry of the baby’s head, taking into consideration the baby’s medical history and patterns of behavior that might contribute to the condition.
In some cases, imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans might be necessary to rule out craniosynostosis, a condition where the skull bones fuse prematurely.
Treatment Options
The primary goal of treatment for deformational brachycephaly is to improve the shape and proportion of the baby’s head. Treatment strategies include:
Repositioning Techniques:
Encouraging tummy time when the baby is awake and supervised.
Altering the baby’s sleeping position to reduce pressure on the flattened area.
Positioning devices are used to help redistribute pressure on the baby’s head.
Helmet Therapy:
Cranial orthotic devices such as the STARband™ helmet can be used for more severe cases. These helmets are custom-made to gently reshape the baby’s head over time by applying mild pressure to the prominent areas and allowing room for growth in the flattened areas.
Monitoring and Follow-Up:
Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor the baby’s progress and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Prevention Tips
Preventing deformational brachycephaly involves a proactive approach:
Ensure the baby gets plenty of supervised tummy time daily.
Alternate the baby’s head position during sleep.
Limit the use of carriers and other devices that apply constant pressure on the back of the head.
Deformational brachycephaly is a common condition that affects many infants, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, the shape of the baby’s head can be significantly improved. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant about providing adequate tummy time, monitoring the baby’s head shape, and seeking medical advice if any concerns arise. Most babies with deformational brachycephaly achieve excellent outcomes with the right strategies and support.
By understanding the causes, identifying the symptoms, and following through with effective treatment plans, we can ensure that infants with deformational brachycephaly receive the best possible care, promoting healthy growth and development.
