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Background

Facial deformities in syndromic craniosynostosis are not only functionally, psychosocially, and aesthetically impairing but also notoriously challenging to reconstruct. Whether facial suture synostosis plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of these deformities is inadequately studied in human patients.

Methods

The MEDLINE database was queried using a methodologically generated search term inventory. Article inclusion was adjudicated by 2 authors after independent review. Articles provided insight into facial suture involvement in either syndromic craniosynostosis patients or animal models of disease.

Results

Comprehensive review yielded 19 relevant articles meeting inclusion criteria. Mid-20th century craniofacial biologists characterized how patent facial sutures are essential for normal postnatal facial development. They also posited that premature ossification disrupts growth vectors, causing …