How is plagiocephaly measured?
Clinicians will be able to assess whether or not your baby has plagiocephaly by simply looking at their head shape, but to assess the exact severity of the condition, they use a piece of equipment known as a craniometer. Craniometry is the measurement of the cranium; in other words, the skull.
What is mild plagiocephaly?
Deformational, or positional, plagiocephaly is when a baby develops a flat spot on one side of the head or the whole back of the head. It happens when a baby sleeps in the same position most of the time or because of problems with the neck muscles that result in a head-turning preference.
Does plagiocephaly affect head circumference?
Most children with plagiocephaly have patent cranial sutures, and head circumference is not affected by the deformity.
What is normal cephalic ratio?
The average value of cephalic index in children up to 3 years of age amounted to 81.45 ± 7.06. The index value in case of children under 3 months was 80.19, 4 to 6 months was 81.45, 7 to 12 months was 83.15, in children under 2 years was 81.05, and in children under 3 years was 79.76.
Does mild plagiocephaly correct itself?
Treatment of plagiocephaly Often, mild plagiocephaly doesn’t need treatment. It’s likely to fix itself as your baby grows. This is because your baby’s head shape will naturally improve as her head grows and her gross motor skills develop.
How long does it take to fix plagiocephaly?
When treatment starts at the optimum age of 3-6 months, it usually can be completed within 12 weeks. Correction is still possible in babies up to age 18 months, but will take longer.
What if plagiocephaly is left untreated?
If congenital plagiocephaly, which is caused by craniosynostosis, is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including: Head deformities, possibly severe and permanent. Increased pressure inside the head. Seizures.
How can I make my baby’s head round?
Try these tips:
- Practice tummy time. Provide plenty of supervised time for your baby to lie on the stomach while awake during the day.
- Vary positions in the crib. Consider how you lay your baby down in the crib.
- Hold your baby more often.
- Change the head position while your baby sleeps.
Can plagiocephaly cause developmental delays?
Positional plagiocephaly (PP) occurs in 20%–30% of infants and predicts higher risk for developmental delays in the toddler years.