Metopic Synostosis

Metopic synostosis is where the suture in the middle of the forehead fuses prematurely. This leads in most cases to a triangular or ‘trigonocephalic’ head shape. The incidence of metopic synostosis seems to be increasing worldwide.

Males are more commonly affected than females, with a ratio of 3:1.

Around 2-% of children with metopic synostosis will have some form of developmental delay. This does not seem to be related to the severity of the condition or whether or not they have surgery.

Surgery, if indicated, is usually carried out, following a thorough multidisciplinary assessment, between around 4 to 9 months of age.

The aims of the surgery are threefold;
1. Correct the existing deformity
2. Prevent the deformity from progressing and becoming worse 3. To reduce the risk of raised intracranial pressure

Following the surgery, children are followed up until they reach skeletal maturity as outlined in our management protocol for single suture synostosis.

Most children will only require a single operation in infancy.