Craniofacial Malformations
Definition
Craniofacial malformations are some of the most common structural birth defects. They often are the result of genetic disorders and may be associated with developmental and functional abnormalities, such as abnormal brain growth, hearing loss, and difficulty with breathing, chewing, swallowing, and speech. Craniofacial malformations range from cleft lip and palate to congenital growths and tumors, as well as complex craniofacial dysostosis , in which the bones in the skull and face fuse abnormally. Treatment for these complex conditions may involve many specialties, including neurosurgery.