Rare Surgery for a Baby with Fused Skull

Timely Intervention by Kamineni Hospital Doctors Saves the Child

After birth, a baby’s skull remains soft in certain areas, leaving gaps to allow the brain to grow. However, in rare cases, these gaps close prematurely due to genetic reasons, causing increased brain pressure, abnormal head growth, and vision issues. Early detection and surgical intervention can resolve this condition, but delays can lead to severe complications. In one such rare case, doctors at Kamineni Hospital, LB Nagar, performed a life-saving surgery on a baby. Consultant Neuro Surgeon and Minimal Access Brain & Spine Surgeon Dr. S. Ramesh provided details about the procedure.

“A 3D printing professional from Warangal brought his three-month-old baby for a routine pediatric checkup. However, the doctor noticed that the baby's skull was hard in areas that should have been soft, indicating premature closure. The case was referred to Kamineni Hospital for further evaluation and treatment. After conducting all necessary tests, we performed an endoscopic procedure called endoscopic suturectomy to reopen the fused areas of the skull, creating the necessary space for the brain to grow. Cases like these are extremely rare, occurring in only one in 3,000 infants, usually due to genetic factors,” explained Dr. Ramesh.

He added, “Following the surgery, helmet therapy is crucial. The baby needs to wear a specially designed helmet for 12 to 15 months, for about 22-23 hours daily. The helmet helps guide brain growth by restricting growth in certain areas while allowing it in others. These helmets are not readily available locally, so we procured one from Bengaluru. The helmet is made of multiple layers of cushioning, which are adjusted as the baby grows. Currently, the baby is in good health. Regular follow-ups and consistent use of the helmet have been advised to the parents.”