It is particularly important to differentiate between positional craniofacial deformities and craniosynostosis. These are due to early closure of the main cranial sutures.

The skull grows in the direction of the closed suture, disappearing the anterior fontanelle and leaving a slight ridge at the closed suture.

There are variations in craniosynostosis typology according to the cranial suture affected. In order of frequency these are:

To confirm craniosynostosis cranial radiography is needed and planning for the operation would mean a previous CT-scan 3D or even Magnetic Resonance Image MRI.

An ophthalmic and neurological check before would be of great assistance before surgery. The case might also demand checking intracranial pressure.

In some cases of multiple or syndromic craniosynostosis (Crouzon, Apert, Saethre-Chotzen, etc.) a genetic study would also be carried out.

Non-syndromic craniosynostosis present levels of functional retardance higher than 50%.