Skull base growth in craniosynostosis

Introduction: The interrelationship of skull base growth and craniosynostosis is one that is not often taken into account in the clinical management of patients with craniofacial disorders by neurosurgeons and craniofacial surgeons. Very early on in our medical training we are taught the anatomical differences between the calvarial unit and skull base portion of the skull. The inherent differences in both underlying tissue components and the different growth characteristics of these two uniquely different structures are critical in understanding skull base growth in craniosynostosis and the inherent potential craniofacial growth in these unique children. Review: This paper will review some of the basic anatomy of these zones of growth plus review some of the prevalent theories of the effect of skull base growth on craniosynostosis and the converse. Conclusion: While the theories of these growth patterns have yet to be finalized an understanding of their potential influences and abnormal growth patterns remain key to providing a good surgical outcome in surgery for craniosynostosis.