title: Endoscopic Strip Craniectomy for Craniosynostosis: Do We Really Understand the Indications, Outcomes, and Risks?
abstract: Endoscopic strip craniectomy with postoperative helmet therapy has been introduced as a means to correct various forms of craniosynostosis. Although some authors have deemed the procedure safe and effective, many questions remain regarding this promising yet developing approach. The authors discuss 4 cases where patients were inadequately treated with endoscopic strip craniectomy resulting in a recommendation of complete secondary open cranial vault reconstruction. In addition, the authors present the findings from an informal survey of craniofacial colleagues to highlight an important discrepancy between published and anecdotal reports of complications. Finally, the authors highlight the need for further investigation into the proper indications and clinical outcomes of endoscopic strip craniectomy to better understand the role of this technique in the treatment of craniosynostosis.
authors.affiliation: *Department of Surgery, Section of Plastic Surgery †Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI.
authors.forename: Theodore A
authors.initials: TA
authors.lastname: Kung
authors.forename: Christian J
authors.initials: CJ
authors.lastname: Vercler
authors.forename: Karin M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Muraszko
authors.forename: Steven R
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Buchman
mesh_terms: D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis; D003398:Craniosynostoses / Q000601:surgery*; D056424:Decompressive Craniectomy / Q000379:methods*; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D016896:Treatment Outcome