19.  Why do we operate on craniosynostoses?  Does insurance cover this?  What is the relapse rate?

Answer:
To avoid possible neurologic sequelae resulting from possible increased intracranial pressure including blindness and to allow more normal brain development and diminish the possibility of delayed or retarded mental development, and also to allow more normal psychosocial development from a more normal appearance.  This should be covered by insurance.  According to Carson, about 3% of cases require repeat of the same operation.
 

 BACK TO CORE CURRICULUM TOPICS PAGE