Craniofacial

Craniofacial refers to the anatomical area of the head and face. It is a specialized field in medicine and surgery that involves the management of congenital and acquired disorders of the skull, face, and jaws. The term is derived from the words "cranium" (the part of the skull that encloses the brain) and "facial" (pertaining to the face).

Anatomy

The craniofacial region encompasses the skull, face, and jaws, which are composed of several bones. These include the frontal, parietal, occipital, temporal, sphenoid, and ethmoid bones in the skull, and the maxilla and mandible in the jaws. These bones are connected by sutures, which are fibrous joints that allow growth and development of the skull and face during childhood.

Craniofacial Disorders

Craniofacial disorders are conditions that affect the structure and appearance of the head and face. These can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developed after birth). Examples of craniofacial disorders include craniosynostosis, cleft lip and palate, craniofacial microsomia, and Pierre Robin sequence.

Craniosynostosis

Craniosynostosis is a condition in which one or more of the sutures in a baby's skull close prematurely, causing problems with normal brain and skull growth. It can result in a misshapen head and, in severe cases, developmental delays.

Cleft Lip and Palate

Cleft lip and palate is a common congenital disorder where the lip and/or roof of the mouth (palate) do not form properly during fetal development, resulting in a gap or split (cleft).

Craniofacial Microsomia

Craniofacial microsomia is a condition characterized by underdevelopment of the structures on one or both sides of the face, primarily affecting the ears, mouth, and jaw.

Pierre Robin Sequence

Pierre Robin sequence is a condition characterized by a smaller than normal lower jaw (micrognathia), a tongue that falls back in the throat (glossoptosis), and difficulty breathing.

Craniofacial Surgery

Craniofacial surgery is a surgical subspecialty that deals with the treatment of craniofacial disorders. It involves a variety of procedures, such as cranial vault remodeling, distraction osteogenesis, and orthognathic surgery, to correct deformities and improve function and appearance.