Pediatria pre prax 5/2014

Treatment of positional plagiocephaly using a cranial molding orthosis

Introduction:Positional plagiocephaly is a head shape abnormality resulting from prenatal and postnatal causes. This deformity may resolve spontaneously or by positional therapy but some children have residual flattening. Authors present their experience with treatment of positional plagiocephaly using cranial orthosis. Materials and methods:We have followed 18 patients treated by cranial orthosis between February and December 2010. Patients were evaluated according to CVA index prior and after treatment. Results:Four patients did not tolerate the orthosis. In three patients we were not able to initiate the therapy and in one case we finished the therapy after two weeks. Treatment using cranial orthosis was successful in 13 patients – according to CVA index and from cosmetic point of view. In one patient the orthosis did not lead to improvement. We did not register any other complications. Conclusion:Treatment of positional plagiocephaly using cranial orthosis is safe alternative to the repositioning and physical therapy. Cranial orthosis is more effective in severe deformities and in early initiation of the therapy.

Keywords: cranial orthosis, positional plagiocephaly, neurodevelopment.