Definitions

Plagiocephaly

A “slanted or flat head”.  It can be caused by abnormal sutural fusion = “synostotic plagiocephaly”, BUT MOST COMMONLY caused by abnormal positioning of the baby’s head, called “deformational plagiocephaly”.  This is treated by physical therapy, positioning, and sometimes a molding helmet.

Proptosis

Bulging of the eye from the bony orbit, unilateral or bilateral, related to a shallow orbit. Associated with Crouzon, Apert, Pfeiffer, and other craniofacial syndromes.

Coloboma

Defect of some structure of the eye such as eyelid, iris, retina, choroid or optic nerve.

Visceral arches

Visceral arches are pieces of cartilages or bones that support the pharyngeal region of vertebrates and also help attach the jaws with the skull.

Torticollis

Contraction or tightness of muscles in the neck that causes the head to be drawn to one side and rotated so the chin points to the other side.

Tracheostomy

The surgical creation of an opening in the windpipe through the neck to allow the passage of air.

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