craniosynostosis

The craniosynostosis - The premature closure of one or more of the joints (sutures) between the skull bones in infants. If all of the joints are involved, the growing brain may be compressed and there is a risk of brain damage due to the increased pressure inside the skull. If the abnormality is localized, the head may be deformed.

Craniosynostosis may occur before birth and may be associated with other birth defects. It may also occur in an otherwise healthy baby, or in a baby with a disorder such as rickets. If the brain has been compressed, an operation may be performed to separate the fused skull bones.