Minimally Invasive Versus Open Cranial Vault Remodeling Procedures for Single-Suture Craniosynostosis: What Do We Know?

Craniosynostosis is a congenital condition characterized by the premature fusion of cranial sutures, disrupting normal skull and potentially brain growth. The current gold standard for nonsyndromic single-suture craniosynostosis is open cranial vault remodeling, which was pioneered by surgeons like Tessier and Whitaker in the 1970s. Recent advances have led to minimally invasive techniques, such as endoscopic-assisted strip craniectomy with helmeting, spring-assisted cranioplasty, and distraction osteogenesis. These methods aim to minimize surgical trauma, reduce blood loss, and shorten recovery times. This review assesses the evidence comparing open and minimally invasive surgeries for nonsyndromic single-suture craniosynostosis.